Parisian department stores and shopping centers are in limbo. The deconfinement plan presented by Édouard Philippe conditions the reopening of commercial facilities of more than 40,000 m2 with the agreement of the prefects.
This decision precludes the Forum des Halles (75,000 m 2) and leaves serious doubts about smaller structures such as Beaugrenelle (15th), Italy II (13th) or even the Palace shops (17th) . "We take note of the fact that the prefects may decide on a case-by-case basis not to let these centers reopen after May 11, beyond the food sections already open," reacted the Forum des Halles.
Printemps unfolds on three different buildings
Will there be an exception for department stores that attract millions of visitors each year? Their activity being deployed on different buildings, a hope persists.
Le Printemps, the only brand to have responded to our requests, is preparing to reopen its Paris stores, including its flagship on Boulevard Haussmann (IXth), which spans three buildings with a total surface area of 45,500 m², and its Citadium stores, the group's urban fashion brand, "awaiting further details in the coming days," said the group's management.
Disinfection, protections and schedules
Masks will be provided to employees and hydroalcoholic gel will be made available to sellers and customers. The cleaning will be reinforced and the contact surfaces and direct workstations will be disinfected throughout the day.
Safety distances will be materialized and protective material (plexiglass) will be put in place. Schedules will be arranged and telework maintained for employees whose assignments can be carried out remotely. A health communication will remind customers and sales advisers of the safety instructions.
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