HARDWARE stores including Screwfix and B&Q have been deemed “essential retailers” during the coronavirus crisis – here’s what it means for opening times.
It comes after Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered all "non-essential" shops to shut while urging Brits to stay home to stop the spread of COVID-19.
⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
Shops that are allowed to stay open include supermarkets, pharmacies, newsagents, banks and Post Offices.
Vets, pet shops, petrol stations, launderettes, banks and hardware stores will also keep doors open for customers.
Hardware stores are including in the list as they stock essential materials and equipment that help keep homes warm, safe and with power.
We've rounded up the opening hours for the major UK tools stores following the lockdown announcement.
Is Screwfix open?
Screwfix stores are open and operating under normal hours – but only for existing "essential" click and collect orders.
It hasn't said if customers can browse and shop in stores as usual.
We've asked Screwfix for more information on this, as well as what products it describes as "essential".
For any orders that aren't deemed "essential" the company is asking that you don't go to stores to collect.
Screwfix says it will contact customers over the next few days to discuss options.
The retailer's website is also temporarily closed but Screwfix says it'll be live again later today so customers can place new orders.
Once it's back online, you can use the store finder to track down your nearest Screwfix.
Most shops in the UK open at 8am but times do vary depending on your location.
Screwfix has also warned that delivery times may be delayed due to increased orders.
Is Wickes open?
Wickes stores are closed today while the retailer works out "the best operation to support customers in these unprecedented times".
Shops are expected to reopen tomorrow under normal trading hours, while customers can also still order online.
If you are expecting a delivery today were looking to click and collect from stores, Wickes says it'll be in touch to rearrange your order.
Wickes said: "We apologise for any inconvenience caused and do hope you understand this disruption as we seek to fulfil essential services for all, whilst keeping wellbeing front of mind."
Wickes stores typically open between 6am and 9am, depending on where you live.
You can use the online store finder to see when your local is expected to open tomorrow.
We've asked the retailer if customers will be able to browse and shop, or if they'll only be able to click and collect.
Is B&Q open?
B&Q stores are closed today so stores can decide how best to trade going forward.
They're expected to reopen tomorrow under normal trading hours, in the meantime, customers can still make orders on the B&Q website.
Customers with click and collect orders due today are being told their products should be available in store tomorrow.
B&Q has also confirmed click and collect orders will now be ready to pick up in four hours due to extra demand – but customers should still only go to pick up their order once they've received an email confirming it's ready.
B&Q said: "We are now working out the safest and simplest way to support communities in providing only essential products moving forwards."
B&Q stores usually open from 7am – use the online finder tool to locate your nearest shop.
We've asked B&Q if customers will be able to browse and shop, or if they'll only be able to click and collect.
Is Homebase open?
Homebase stores are open today but only for "essential repair and maintenance projects".
The retailer hasn't said if customers will be able to buy products as normal, or if all click and collect orders will be ready.
We've asked Homebase for more information and we'll update this article when we know more.
The Homebase website has also temporarily been taken down but is expected to go live again later today.
It should mean customers will be able to place new orders once it's up and running.
Homebase stores usually open from 9am across the UK.
Customers can use the online finder to see where their nearest branch is once the website is live again.
Are hairdressers open today or will they be closed due to coronavirus?
We've also rounded up Argos coronavirus opening times and advice for ordering online.
A number of restaurants announced they would be shutting their doors, even for takeaway, including Greggs, KFC and Pizza Express.
Source: Read Full Article