Debenhams is preparing to reopen the vast majority of its UK stores on Monday, June 15, 2020, following the enforced ‘Covid 19 lock-down’.
The Bedford town centre store is one of the 53 stores Debenhams have announced that will be reopening on this date.
This announcement comes as a huge relief to all of Bedford town centre traders as the future of the store was not certain.
A spokesperson for the BedfordBID which promotes the town under the Love Bedford banner said: “Businesses in Bedford will be delighted to see Debenhams is reopening its key store right in the heart of the town centre. We are sure that customers will be very glad to see it back and we look forward to visitors once again enjoying the full retail experience in Bedford as our independent shops and services come back to life.”
Henry Vann, Portfolio Holder for Town Centres and Planning welcomed the news saying: “This is obviously great news for our town centre. Debenhams is an important part of Bedford’s retail offer and alongside our strong and nimble independent sector and it is welcome news that the Bedford store is re-opening; we had understood that this was a possibility and I am delighted that it has been confirmed with today’s announcement. Bedford Borough has a clear vision for the town centre, working with local businesses to create a diverse and exciting destination for all.”
Preparations for reopening are well under way, with strict social distancing and hygiene procedures being implemented across all stores in adherence with the latest Government guidance and instruction.
Stores in Scotland and Wales will reopen once government restrictions allow.
Steven Cook, Managing Director, Debenhams, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming customers back to our stores in the coming weeks. From the installation of perspex screens at till points to the roll-out of social distancing procedures and PPE, we have been working hard to ensure our colleagues and customers can work and shop with confidence. Our reopening plans follow the successful conclusion of lease negotiations on 120 stores, meaning that the vast majority of our stores will be reopening.”
Ahead of reopening, Debenhams’ customers will continue to be able to shop online through www.debenhams.com and www.debenhams.ie.
