Business is actually slightly better than before lockdown ... long may it continue, says furniture retailer

A Lisburn furniture retailer has reported that business levels have been “a bit busier” than normal in his first week reopening after lockdown.
David Dugan, of Seymour Dugan Interiors in Lisburn, says that business is slightly busier than before lockdownDavid Dugan, of Seymour Dugan Interiors in Lisburn, says that business is slightly busier than before lockdown
David Dugan, of Seymour Dugan Interiors in Lisburn, says that business is slightly busier than before lockdown

David Dugan, owner of Seymour Dugan Interiors on Chapel Hill, says customers are back to normal levels of shopping for beds, mattresses, sofas, rugs, carpets and wooden floors.

He opened his business three weeks ago by appointment only.

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“I quite enjoyed it, because anyone who took the trouble to book was serious and I was able to give them my full attention,” he said. “Every customer purchased, although we were averaging only about three customers per day.

“But last week was our first week to fully reopen. We were not under pressure but it was probably a bit busier than a standard week. Sales are back to normal compared to pre-lockdown and long may it continue.

“We now have a general sale on, with most items 20% off and some items half price.”

People can still touch any item of furniture but they must sanitise their hands as they come in. The business is currently limited to 24 customers in total at any time.

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“We have a brave size of premises, so we were pleased that no customers were forced to queue outside so far.”

The business has numerous signs up reminding customers to observe the two-metre social distance and hand sanitiser stations are set up every 30-40 feet.

A lot of customers are buying beds, so the company is using waterproof hospital pillows for anyone who wants to use one during a purchase.

“Then when they are finished we sanitise it and place it to the bottom of the pile.

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“Customer levels are back to normal so far. Some are very cautious in keeping their distance and others step in closer without thinking and you have to step back. Some people have gloves and masks on but about 75% are shopping as normal.”

The company is still taking after-hours private appointments at 5.30pm. See www.seymourdugan.co.uk for more information or phone 028 9266 3587.

Department of Health guidance is that many retailers can now open, but that people should maintain two-metre social distancing and good hand hygiene; cover coughs and sneezes, and consider using face coverings in enclosed spaces if social distancing is not possible.

Aodhán Connolly, director of the NI Retail Consortium, said the reopening of non-essential shops marks a crucial time for thousands of retailers and jobs, with lockdown having cost non-food UK shops £1.7bn per week.

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“It has never been more important to play our part in keeping our towns and high streets vibrant,” he said. “Every visit we make helps support jobs in retail, as well as throughout the supply chain. Retailers have been working around the clock to create a safe shopping environment.”

The NI Retail Consortium has launched five points to encourage considerate shopping:

• Queue considerately;

• Maintain social distancing;

• Follow instructions inside and outside shops;

• Follow all necessary hygiene measures;

• Be respectful to shop staff.

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