Retailers are seeking further government guidance around mask-wearing after July 19, aka “Freedom Day”.

Grocery and retail bosses are seeking further government guidance around mask-wearing, despite the Prime Minister confirming that the legal requirement to wear them will be lifted.

Yesterday, Sainsbury’s chief executive Simon Roberts said he expected customers would no longer need to wear masks in its stores from July 19. He said he would consult with staff on their views but said the decision to wear one would be down to individual choice.

However, the PA news agency reported that a number of retailers are calling on the government for more detail before confirming their in-store policies for customers.

Morrisons and Aldi are reportedly among retailers that have requested more detailed guidance. Meanwhile, Tesco is understood to be currently partaking an internal review into its mask-wearing policy following the government update on Monday.

On Monday, PM Boris Johnson said the government was planning to halt the legal requirement regarding face coverings. Despite this, he added he would wear a face covering in crowded places and as a matter of courtesy.

Chief medical officer Chris Whitty also said on Monday he would continue wearing a mask “in any situation that was indoors and was crowded, or indoors and in close proximity to other people”.

The final decision regarding the relaxation of restrictions will be confirmed on July 12 and the government is then expected to provide more detailed guidance over these changes.

Retail bosses are hopeful this will provide further clarity amid some continued uncertainty following the latest briefing.

[source: Retail Gazette]