The Kbsa has advised members in England that they can remain open when the new lockdown comes into force at midnight tonight (04 November).

The advice follows the publication of both legislation and guidance regarding ‘non-essential’ retail.  As with the previous lockdown, the government has stated that ‘hardware stores & builders merchants‘ are classed as essential retail.

Kbsa national chair Richard Hibbert said, “We have acted swiftly to clear any confusion, around the definition of ‘non- essential’ within the new legislation, and confirmed our position with BEIS”.

“This is good news for independent retailers.  A stop-start situation during this busy period, when projects are in hand for a Christmas completion, would have caused huge complications”.

“Members are also being advised to ensure that they continue to operate in a Covid-19 secure manner and we have a wealth of advice and support available to assist with this”.

“We remain committed to supporting members and the wider audience of independent retailers as they negotiate their way through this challenging period.”