Svensk Handel, a group that represents the retail and wholesale trade in Sweden, has launched a campaign to create safe retail environment for customers and employees in collaboration with Handelsanställdas förbund (Trade Employees' Association).
The Välkommen in – din handling gör skillnad (Welcome in - your action makes a difference) campaign will offer signs, buttons, and information material related to COVID-19 that retailers can use in their stores.
It aims to convey the message that their outlets have implemented safety measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
'Safe Trading Places'
Head of communications at Svensk Handel, Katarina Kempe, said, “Through solid information and clear communication, we want to contribute to creating safe trading places for both employees and customers.
“We want to emphasise the importance that we all take a shared responsibility when we visit stores.”
The campaign also includes a short film that is being shared on social media, Svensk Handel added.
At present, stores in Sweden have almost 47% fewer consumers than before the pandemic, a new Sifo survey by Svensk Handel has revealed.
Other Highlights
Customers are avoiding store visits to reduce the risk of infection and many shoppers above the age of 70 have interpreted the guidelines of the Public Health Authority as not having to visit stores.
The study also found that nine out of 10 customers believe that it is important for retailers to take action to prevent the virus from spreading.
Respondents appreciated measures such as limiting the number of customers in stores to avoid congestion, distance markings on the floor, and contactless payment options.
'Sales Are Recovering'
CEO of Svensk Handel, Karin Johansson, said, “The fact that sales are recovering as soon as possible is crucial to the survival of many stores.
"When the trade now welcomes customers back, it is important that the trading companies continue to take their important social responsibility to prevent the spread of infection.”
Almost 6 out of 10 Swedish customers (57%) believe that retailers have taken sufficient measures to enable social distancing in stores, the study noted.
However, 13% of the respondents opined that the actions taken by stores have been inadequate.
The survey was conducted between 25 - 28 May and included 1,109 respondents.
© 2020 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.
