Dobbies to re-open Inverness garden centre as coronavirus restrictions eased
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Garden centre chain Dobbies will re-open its Inverness store tomorrow amid an easing of coronavirus restrictions.
Based at the Inshes Retail Park, is among 12 Dobbies stores in Scotland preparing to welcome back customers following updated guidance from the Scottish Government that garden centres can re-open.
The retailer said the safety of staff and customers remained top priority and social distancing measures had been implemented to allow the stores to operate safely.
A limited number of customers will be permitted in the stores at one time and a queuing system will be in operation outside, with two metre markers in place to help maintain social distancing. Hand sanitising and trolley cleaning stations will be available at the entrance of all stores,
Protective screens have been installed at tills and customers will be asked to pay with card or contactless, where possible.
Appropriate personal protective equipment has been provided for staff who will also receive training and regular briefings on how to keep themselves and customers safe.
Rigorous daily hygiene routines will continue throughout the stores. The restaurants and soft plays will remain temporarily closed.
Graeme Jenkins, chief executive of Dobbies, welcomed the updated guidance from the Scottish Government.
"The safety of our team members and customers remains Dobbies’ number one priority and following advice from the government, Horticultural Trades Association and British Retail Consortium, social distancing measures have been implemented," he said.
"We began reopening our other UK stores on May 11 and we have now successfully opened 56 stores across Wales, England and Northern Ireland.
"It has been a very positive start to trading, with customers most interested in buying plants, gardening products and outdoor furniture, as they are keen to spend time in their gardens this spring.
"I would like to thank our team members and customers for their understanding during these uncertain times, and look forward to welcoming customers back to our store in Inverness and stores across Scotland."
Related story: Inverness business looks forward to re-opening
