Sanders Garden Centre in Brent Knoll saw over 1,000 customers when it re-opened to the public on Wednesday (May 13th) following the Government’s gradual easing of the lockdown.
Blue Diamond, which owns Sanders, is operating its garden centres in a ‘Covid-Secure environment’ to keep customers and staff safe.
Centre manager Karen Hamer told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It was as busy as a Bank Holiday and many customers were supportive and pleased to see us open again.”
“We have sanitizing stations around the store, plus 2-metre social distancing around the building, and we are constantly undertaking equipment cleaning through the day. Our staff all have PPE to keep them safe as well.”
“The morning was very busy and it quietened down in the afternoon. Our opening hours for the moment are 9am-6pm but we will be considering revising these in coming weeks based on demand.”
A spokesman adds: “It is with a sense of relief and gratitude that we have this week received the Government’s decision allowing us to resume trading and enabling our customers to once again enjoy tending to their gardens.”
“With over 70% of our retail space outdoors and with wide pathways, garden centres such as Sanders are ideally placed to comply with the robust social distancing measures demanded by Public Health England to safeguard both our customers and staff.”
“After rigorous consultation and preparation we have put in place a Covid secure plan which includes restrictions on the number of customers allowed in the store at one time, strict social distancing measures and one way systems, protective screens at all till points, regular and widely available sanitising stations, PPE including face masks, visors and gloves for all staff and a comprehensive program of cleaning and sanitising throughout the store.”
“Unfortunately our restaurant, coffee shop and play area will remain closed until further notice, as will our restrooms.”
Sanders adds that it will also continue to operate its home delivery service and click-and-collect options for those self isolating, shielding or anyone else who prefers this service.
