DIY stores in France start to reopen

DIY stores in France are starting to reopen. The store operators have got their stores ready to recommence trading by procuring masks, putting down markings and bringing in the required staff. Outlets that are suitably equipped are now gradually beginning to open their doors.
Market leader Leroy Merlin will have around 90 branches open again from this evening (24 April) and tomorrow. The remaining 50 or so stores are likely to follow in the next week as soon as they are ready for operation under the current conditions.
Castorama, number 2 of the French home improvement market, and other DIY retailers have also begun to open their stores again today for self-service shopping without direct contact with sales staff. Its employees are in store voluntarily, Castorama states on its website, and their safety during this difficult phase is the top priority. Customers and staff must generally maintain a distance of one metre from one another.
Home improvement retailers in France could have opened their stores from mid-March even during the lockdown. They voluntarily closed their outlets, however.