In the first of a series of interviews with independent childrenswear retailers on the reopening of their stores, Amanda Jones, owner of Mini Kin in Crouch End, shares her experience.

 

Laura Turner: Were you able to trade online during lockdown?

Amanda Jones: I don’t currently sell online, though I did consider setting up an Instagram shop at the very beginning of lockdown. However, with huge pressure on the postal and delivery services, it didn’t feel like the right thing to do at that time.

LT: What measures have you put in place to reopen?

AJ: I have a one-way system and 2-metre floor markers throughout the shop as a guide. Everyone entering the shop is asked to use the hand sanitiser before handling items and ‘touch points’ are constantly sprayed with disinfectant. Any returns are clearly labelled and quarantined for 72 hours before being put back out.

All of the extra cleaning supplies and social distancing stickers were easy to source online. I do have disposable masks for shop staff but they were difficult to find and took a few online searches.

LT: How was your first week of trading?

AJ: It was very positive. Sales seem promising; particularly in comparison to the few weeks pre-lockdown, although not at the same level I would hope for at this time of year. There have been lots of well-wishers passing by and it’s been great to have customers back in the shop to chat with.

LT: How are you finding the practice of social distancing in-store?

AJ: Generally, customers are respectful of the social distancing rules. You don’t often have to ask a customer to step back when you are looking for a particular size or selecting an outfit for them. I am keeping the shop closed on Sundays for the time being. We are also opening a little later during the week at 10am and closing a little earlier at 4.30pm/5pm.

LT: Do you plan to do any buying this season?

AJ: I have just put in my first online order for SS21. I was very cautious and didn’t spend as I normally would. It was difficult getting a feel for the collection online and I will also have SS20 pieces to carry over.

LT: How did you promote the reopening of your store?

AJ: Promoting the shop opening was mainly via our Facebook and Instagram pages and sharing on local parent groups. I also have a children’s hair salon to the back of the shop so there has been interest from customers wanting to make bookings for the salon, which reopens on 4 July.

 

Mini Kin
22 Broadway Parade
Crouch End
N8 9DE