Bunnings has announced a raft of new changes to all stores amid the globe’s coronavirus pandemic crisis.
Most pressing is the introduction of a special shopping hour for tradespeople and health service workers. The hardware superstore will now be open exclusively to these shoppers before 9am to ensure they are able to purchase items they need.
Bunnings will also now restrict the number of shoppers in their stores at any given time and are directing customers to stay 1.5 metres apart - in line with government social distancing restrictions. Bunnings stores will also be closing earlier so staff can thoroughly clean and restock shelves. All cafes, water fountains and trade coffee stations have also been closed.
Says Bunnings Managing Director Mike Schneider: 'We've made a lot of changes in store as we work to ensure the safety of our team and customers and operate in a responsible way,' he said.
'We understand the importance that a reliable supply of key products is to both DIY and trade customers to keep their businesses running and support their local communities, particularly with emergency repairs and maintenance.
'We've also seen increased demand for necessary products that customers need to maintain their homes and we are focused on making sure we can make these items available.
'We've got over 43,000 team members across Australia and our focus is on keeping them employed, while also putting measures in place to keep our team and customers safe.'
Bunnings new coronavirus changes
1. Customers encouraged to use tap and go.
2. Cafes closed.
3. Water fountains and trade coffee stations closed
4. Customers will be limited in busier aisles.
5. Customers will also be limited during busy times.
6. Shoppers are encouraged to use Tap and Pay at checkouts where possible.
7. Increased cleaning in all stores, especially with counters, trolleys and hand baskets.
8. Hand sanitiser to be provided for all team members.
9. Floors will be taped at 1.5 metre intervals to encourage social distancing, trestle tables will also be placed in front of service areas to create more distance and stock moved.
10. Stores open before 9am to tradespeople and healthcare workers only.
11. Suspension of all sausage sizzles, family and in-store events.
