Creating a safe shopping experience

After months of doing our part to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus by staying home, it’s a safe guess that some of us may be looking at our furniture and home decor with a tired eye. Maybe you’re thinking that after months of high use, the living room can use a little refresh or maybe you were already planning to shop for a new sofa in the spring but continued living with the old one when stores closed to help flatten the curve.

In the coming days and weeks, when it is considered safe to do so and in accordance with regional government and health official guidelines, our partners’ showrooms will begin reopening to serve customers in a range of ways. In many ways, it will be a different shopping experience than before as we all embrace an approach of monitoring, rapidly adapting to, and shaping the “now normal.” While different showrooms may take slightly different approaches, we assure you that the health, safety, and wellbeing of customers and staff will always be prioritized.

Here are some of the things you can expect on your next safe and enjoyable shopping trip.

1. Experience crowd-free shopping and showroom social distancing

In order to follow physical distancing guidelines, many showrooms will limit the number of shoppers allowed in the store at one time. This may mean you will have to wait outside until it’s your turn to browse and shop. And once you do enter the showroom, items may be arranged differently than you remembered. This offers distinct open spaces to better allow for social distancing between guests while shopping

2. Expect clean surfaces

All showrooms will be making cleaning and disinfection a priority. All high-touch areas and objects, including baskets and counters, furniture, pillows, and more will now be cleaned and disinfected frequently. Hand sanitizer may also be available throughout the store. You can do your part to help keep stores clean by only touching what you truly need to touch.

Also, don’t be surprised if when you arrive, the showroom’s doors are propped open. By not having to touch the door handle, your shopping experience will be hands-free from the moment you arrive.

3. Wear a mask and gloves

Consider wearing a mask and gloves when shopping at any of our partners’ stores to protect you and those around you. Some showrooms may have disposable masks and gloves available for customers. Using a mask in situations where it may be difficult to fully physical distance is important, and Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer Theresa Tam does recommend wearing non-medical face masks when shopping or taking public transit.

4. Make an effort to use contactless payment methods

The physical contact of paying with cash, cheque or even passing a credit card at the register is something we all want to try to avoid, at least for the foreseeable future. While retailers know that it’s not always possible to use contactless payment methods in every situation, many of our partner stores have introduced various no-touch payment options, so ask them for details.

5. Book a virtual visit

Some of our partners are offering virtual visits with a sales associate. During these one-on-one consultations, you can discuss your furniture needs, list your likes and dislikes and even view some items all from the comfort of your home. A virtual appointment will minimize the amount of time you do need to spend in the showroom later.

From the moment you walk into any showroom, to the day you enjoy your new furniture and decor in the comfort of your home, our showroom partners will be looking out for you. We’re thinking of you and can’t wait to see you again soon at Decor-Rest.