Marks and Spencer shopping rules for customers as lockdown restrictions change

Like many retailers, Marks and Spencer has made changes to how they operate during the coronavirus crisis. During this time, M&S has updated opening hours, introduced social distancing measures and launched food boxes. What are the current shopping rules?

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When the coronavirus lockdown began, restaurants across the UK were asked to close and people were urged to stay home as much as possible.

These restrictions have started to relax slightly in some parts of the country, but many restaurants remain closed with a few open for delivery.

This means most Britons have been getting all their food from supermarkets leading to an increased demand.

To help deal with this while enforcing social distancing measures, M&S introduced rules for shoppers.

What are the current shopping rules?

Social distancing

The retailer has encouraged customers to maintain a two-metre distance from each other with floor markings and protective screens in-stores.

A statement from Marks and Spencer said: “Our stores are carefully managing the number of people shopping at any one time. We have introduced floor markings to ensure a two-metre space is maintained between customers as well as installing protective perspex screens at checkouts.”

Contactless payment has also been encouraged with the contactless card limit raised to £45.

Colleagues working during this time have also been given equipment to keep up increased hygiene measures.

The retailer continued: “Our stringent hygiene procedures mean colleagues are washing their hands every 30 minutes as well as thoroughly cleaning trolleys and baskets throughout the day, and cleaning self-checkouts after every customer. We are also deep-cleaning all stores every evening.”

Opening times

Marks and Spencer has introduced separate opening hours for elderly and vulnerable customers, and members of the emergency services.

This will help those who have struggled to safely shop during this time and busy key workers.

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“We want to make sure everyone has access to the items they need,” the website states.

“So we are setting aside the first hour of trading on certain days for our older and vulnerable customers, and for our brilliant NHS staff, carers and emergency workers.

“For older and vulnerable customers, this is on Mondays and Thursdays. For NHS staff, carers and emergency workers, this is on Tuesdays and Fridays.”

Food boxes

To help those struggling to get to the shops, supermarkets including Marks and Spencer have launched food boxes that can be ordered online.

These range from £15 to £45 and include essential items for different dietary requirements.

The boxes on offer include the M&S Meat Box, £45, the Mixed Vegetable Box, £15, and the Mixed Seasonal Fruit Box, £20.

Returns policy

Marks and Spencer clothing branches temporarily closed at the beginning of lockdown and will start to reopen on June 15.

As returning products has been more difficult, the retailer extended their policy to 90 days for items bought online and in-store.

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