More stores are reopening in Kendal’s Wainwright’s Yard as government restrictions to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic are gradually eased.
Joining essential grocery store Booths, who have continued to trade during lockdown, are two other family run businesses – Lakeland Kitchens and Armstrong Ward.
All have put in place social distancing measures to try to keep shoppers safe and to give them the confidence to return.
From Monday (15th June) lifestyle store Armstrong Ward, owned by husband and wife team Jacqueline and Andrew, will open with a slimmed down team of two. Usually there are 15 people working in the two-storey shop that includes a café which remains closed.
As Jacqueline Ward explains:
“As a community everyone’s worked hard to do what’s been asked of us. It’s good news that non-essential shops can now open, following social distancing guidance. It’s one small step towards rebuilding our local economy. Kendal has so much to offer and we hope people will support the town and those who are opening up for business.
“The measures we’ve put in place will be familiar to those who have been doing essential shopping. It should be easier for people to understand what’s required of them and to follow the guidance in full.
“We’ve an entrance and exit door system, with sanitisers on entry and at the tills and there are Perspex screens at each till. There’ll be two metre markers on the floor, a one way system and we’ll limit the number of people coming into the shop. We will continue to provide a buying service and people can also book a time to come in,” adds Jacqueline.
The couple have been working hard to put out all the new stock that has been arriving, with the rest of the team still on furlough.
Operating on an appointment only basis, and opening between Tuesday to Saturday (so closed Sunday and Monday) are Lakeland Kitchens. They advise customers to call or email to make an appointment to come in to the showroom.
Anyone wanting to make a special trip to Wainwright’s Yard is advised to check the latest opening times with each retailer, for now Armstrong Ward, Lakeland Kitchen and Booths. And to check on possible further reopenings for Crew Clothing, Pizza Express and Slate Bar.
Above image: Flower stickers in place in Armstrong Ward to remind customers about social distancing
Below image: Gorgeous new stock as Armstrong Ward reopens
Lakeland Kitchens in Wainwright’s Yard has also reopened.
