The prime minister has announced that non-essential retailers will be able to reopen stores in England from 15 June, so long as social distancing measures are implemented.

Boris Johnson stated yesterday that openings would be “contingent on progress in the fight against Coronavirus” and retailers would have to adhere to the new guidance published for the retail sector “detailing the measures they should take to meet the necessary social distancing and hygiene standards”.

He said that car dealerships and outdoor markets would be able to open from 1 June, while clothing, shoe, furniture and electronic shops can open their doors to customers as long as appropriate hygiene and social distancing standards are in place.

However, businesses for which the "risk of transmission is higher" - such as hairdressers, nail bars, beauticians, restaurants and hotels - must stay closed until further notice.

High streets minister Simon Clarke also introduced the £50 million Reopening High Streets Safely Fund over the weekend to help local councils to support high streets.

Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, welcomed the government's announcement, which provided clarity on the route ahead. "Safety is the fundamental concern for all retailers and they have been working hard to implement the necessary measures to operate safely over the past weeks.

"Now that we know which shops can open and when, retailers can begin communicating their plans with their workforces and customers. The industry stands ready to play its part in getting the economy moving again.”

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