09 April 2021

Bira CEO shares his message for "non-essential retail" ahead of the reopening on April 12. 

"Today is a new 'glorious12th' with many members opening for the first time since December. I have nothing but admiration and absolute respect for all of you and your ability to 'get going again'.

Last week I visited some members with the Business Minister. The members I met were so enthusiastic about re-opening and re-connecting with their customers, and I know the Business Minister was suitably impressed.

However, we know that today is simply the start of another long journey to full recovery for your business. We expect some pent up demand and hopefully the successful vaccine programme will improve the footfall on the high streets for a longer period of time. It is also vitallly important for you to keep your employees and your customers safe by implementing all the necessary safety protocols. We have been talking to local authorities around the country who have assured us that there will be greater presence on the streets from both the councils and the police to ensure that the places are safe.

My message to all our members is simple – good luck from everyone at Bira  and we hope this is the last lockdown so you can all start to re-build your business."

Good luck to all those reopening on Monday, we'd love to hear how you're getting on so please get in touch on Facebook, Twitter or via email.

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