In our series of interviews with independent schoolwear retailers on the reopening of their stores, Ash Vij of Tru Uniforms in Manchester shares his experience.

 

Laura Turner: Did you manage to trade online during lockdown?

Ash Vij: During the lockdown period I used the time to create an online store, which took off really well. As soon as I opened, customers were using this platform.

LT: What measures did you put in place before reopening?

AV: Firstly, we marked a 2m queuing system on the shop floor. We had to close the fitting rooms, but provided customers with size guides on our website and via email. All customers that walk through our door use the sanitisers provided and we clean the counter area after each customer.

LT: How was your first week back trading?

AV: It was better than expected. Customers have been understanding and friendly, with constant questions via email.

 

 

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

AV: We are taking appointments for parents with more than one child. The size guides we are providing on the website have helped. As for social distance shopping, I feel it has gone as smoothly as it possibly could. We haven’t changed our store hours.

LT: How have you been promoting the reopening of the store?

AV: By contacting the schools and using Facebook to help push our opening hours and the new guidelines in place.

 

 

LT: What are your plans in terms of buying stock?

AV: We have been buying stock accordingly and taking our time. It is important we don’t over stock, but equally, that we place orders when we start to run low.

LT: What are your thoughts on Back to School?

AV: With the latest update from the government, I believe this summer will be as good as any other year. With it being my first Back to School, I am excited.

 

Tru Uniforms
120 Sale Road
Northern Moor
M23 0BX