A survey of 1000 small businesses across the UK shows that only a quarter (25%) of independent High Street shops have completed the necessary COVID-19 risk assessments, with one in five having not yet implemented any of the top 10 retail recommendations for hygiene and social distancing.
The COVID-19 High Street Recovery & Resilience survey, conducted by campaigning group SaveTheHighStreet.org reveals one in five (20%) have not yet implemented plans for hygiene and social distancing, which include a hand sanitiser unit at every entry and exit points, plexiglass dividers or protection screens at till points and contactless and mobile payment option.
The results suggest that, while 99% of respondents surveyed welcomed the opportunity to open up for business, more support is needed to help small businesses comply with new guidelines and reopen safely.
Alex Schlagman, Founding Partner of SaveTheHighStreet.org, comments: “The next few months may prove to be the most important in the history of the high street. Small shops are raring to serve the public, but the clock is ticking for high street businesses to reopen safely and successfully. The more businesses that get it right this Summer, the stronger our high street recovery will be through 2020 and beyond. The future of the high street depends on how we all act now. We are working hard to ensure small shops have the support they need to be ready in time for the day they turn their door signs from Closed to Open.”
The COVID-19 High Street Recovery & Resilience survey from SaveTheHighStreet.org will continue to collect data into June and all local business owners who take part will receive a free, personalised report to help them survive the COVID-19 crisis and thrive into the future.
