Penneys is calling for an extension of its trading hours when stores reopen in December.
In a statement, the company says that it would allow them to cater for the higher anticipated customer demand.
So the company has added that this would help to reduce queues, by spreading shopping hours over a longer period of time.
It says that stores have extensive safety measures in place to help protect customers and employees.
That includes Perspex screens and increased cleaning.
While it was reported earlier this week that Penneys bosses hope to open some of their stores for 24 hours next month.
Pennys is looking to extend its opening hours for December.
The company say it would help with social distancing and deal with consumer demand.
It's believed they're considering opening 24 hours a day 👀
— Ben Finnegan (@_BenFinnegan) November 6, 2020
Retail Ireland Says Extra Trading Hours Would Be Helpful
Chief Executive of Retail Ireland Duncan Graham says extended hours would be welcome for all shops heading into the Christmas period:
"Both from an operational perspective - in terms of how we can make the shopping experience better."
"But also from that safety perspective, give us a bit longer, extend trading hours, open up in November as opposed to the 1st of December."
"It will actually mean a smoother and safer shopping experience, that's what retailers are looking for."
During December yes, but not always though I can't see a harm of 9am to 9pm opening hours
— Pauliina (@JedPV) November 6, 2020
Damien English, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail said his department will support retailers:
"The retailers, of course they need to be fully open to get the maximum benefit from December."
"Hopefully we'll be in that position come December, that is the aim here."
Penneys Insists Safety Is Paramount
Additionally, a spokesperson for the company told us:
We have extensive safety measures in place in our stores to help protect our employees and customers."
"Including a strict social distancing protocol, limits on the number of customers allowed in store."
"While perspex screens are at tills to protect employees and customers, mandating the use of face masks in-store and increased in-store cleaning.”
