Currys PC World stores to reopen as expert 'tech hubs' - including Merry Hill and Wolverhampton branches

Initially the stores, including one at intu Merry Hill and another at St John's Retail Park, Wolverhampton, are initially opening as expert ‘tech help hubs’ to support customers with existing tech needs.

Staff have been specially briefed to help customers with any tech challenges they may have faced during the lockdown period; and, for the first three days of opening, the place of purchase will not matter. In addition, the retailer will offer free recycling of any tech brought into store that may be cluttering up people’s homes, in a way that is safe and within environmental guidelines.

The retailer has extended its returns policy to cover items bought in-store up to March 24 accepting valid returns until July 6

Queue marshals, practising social distancing, will engage customers to understand their requirements.

During the three-day period, customers will be able to buy from stores, but helping consumers with existing tech queries will be prioritised.

'Pleased'

From Thursday the 131 open stores will move to the normal Currys PC World offering, allowing customers to browse shelves safely and buy as normal, while the retailer works to bring back its usual services, slowly and safely.

The remainder of Currys PC World stores will look to open over the forthcoming weeks.

All stores will reopen with rigorous social distancing and hygiene measures in place, adhering to Government standards. Currys PC World colleagues returning back to work have also received specialised briefings and training.

Chief operating officer Mark Allsop, of parents group Dixons Carphone, said: “Our three day ‘tech help hub’ initiative is part of our commitment to put customers first – even customers that have previously chosen to buy their tech elsewhere.

"We’re pleased to be opening our stores slowly and safely across the UK and Ireland – and we will maintain extreme vigilance, constantly reviewing and improving our approach to safety in an ever-changing situation.

"Most importantly we’re proud of our colleagues themselves, people who continue to work hard to make sure consumers across the country get the tech they need safely.”