How Stores Have Changed due to COVID

As we all know, on January 30, 2020, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, we have all been living that quarantine life; and at this point, over a year into the pandemic, many have become more accustomed to this lifestyle change. But not only did life change in the homes of many but as you probably have noticed, things have changed in the stores and workplaces as well. Some of the new changes can be quite annoying, but others are beneficial. It makes me question why some of these ideas weren’t implemented sooner.   

Before the pandemic, a big part of shopping, especially in retail stores, was the hands-on experience. Being able to try on clothes in the fitting rooms, eating samples at the grocery store, or even trying the makeup samples. 

But now, many retailers are cutting back on the contact between customers and products. Stores are making it easier for consumers to avoid shared surfaces and limit interactions with employees or other customers to prevent the further spread of COVID.  

Stores are also focusing on protecting both their customers and their employees during this time. Stores have made many changes to make sure that happens while also maintaining good customer service. Many stores are using plexiglass dividers between their cashiers and customers, using coverings on card readers, and even providing hand sanitizing stations in different store areas.

Many stores have also begun providing a service called BOPIS (buy online, pick up in-store). Some also offer curbside pickup, so you don’t even have to leave your car and risk exposing yourself to the virus; instead, someone will bring your order to you. 

And by now, most stores also have social distancing marks on the ground to make sure customers remain six feet apart. Not only that but in many stores, there are also markings to show which way to go down the aisles. This, if people follow the arrows correctly, is a huge help. So at least now, we don’t have as many of those awkward traffic jams in the middle of the aisles anymore.

All in all, stores are getting more and more creative in their ways to protect their employees and their customers while also keeping a pleasant shopping experience. We can expect to see more creative ingenuity in the future.