For many retailers and their employees it has become the goal to prove to authorities that their services are in fact needed, making sure the grey area in definitions doesn't leave them out. Arts and crafts retailer Hobby Lobby is using the nationwide face mask shortage to suggest that it offers all supplies necessary for people to make their own reusable masks at home. Their stores are yet to reopen, but reportedly a green light might be coming soon.
Sporting goods store Bass Pro was able to convince authorities in its home state of Missouri to reopen, on one condition: sales are limited to “sale of firearms, ammunition and other items immediately associated to dependable firearm storage and routine maintenance.”
Now health and beauty chains like Bath & Body Works are arguing they too are essential. And, if anything, promoting good hygene should be an easy point to make, even if one doesn't need a long bath with scented candles to be clean. Retailers are redefining their supplies and goals, though, hoping to get back in business.
Of course in all the above cases a return to normal operation isn't possible at this time. With more strict safety and security protocols only a handful of customers could be allowed at a time, with safe distancing and additional staff focused on retaining overall order and sanitary standards rather than serving customers personally. But this might be one thing we all have to get used to in upcoming weeks, maybe months.
