Whilst many people are rejoicing at the end of mandates and covid restrictions not everyone is so enthusiastic about the turnabout, with the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) revealing that 50% of its traders are still nervous about the lifting of restrictions.
In a poll sent to all its members, it was an even split between the traders on if they were happy or not with the plans, while 55% believed the restrictions being lifted would increase footfall and confidence in the high street. Since the announcements, 84% of members believed they hadn’t seen a noticeable increase in foot traffic since the news was released that Plan A was set to be put into place.
Over 60% of Bira traders however were adamant they would be keeping themselve, and their staff masked instore, while 43% would still be asking customers to wear face coverings if they could.
Bira’s CEO Andrew Goodacre said: “There is certainly still some nervousness around the restrictions being lifted. Shop owners are uncertain as they want to protect employees and customers. “It is a positive sign to see the Omicron wave abating, and we hope that this continues once the restrictions are lifted. We now are looking for certainty for our future that our retailers will get support from the government to recover, and that more changes aren’t brought in again in the future.”
Trade exhibition organisers are facing the same dilemma, as for every person who wants to ditch facemasks there is another who wants them firmly in place. What do you prefer?
