Retailer Wilko has outlined its message to customers and staff ahead of changes to coronavirus restrictions in England on Thursday (January 27).
Plan B rules that made the wearing of face masks mandatory in indoor settings such as shops and supermarkets expire on Thursday and are not being extended, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said.
It was part of moving to Plan A as the booster vaccination programme and the milder nature of Omicron meant the Government felt it was the right time to remove some rules, which also included working from home guidance and the use of Covid-19 passes to enter some venues.
And while the wearing or masks indoors will not be mandatory, Wilko will still want to see them being worn.
A spokesperson from the homewares and household goods retailer said: “While masks will no longer be a legal requirement in England, we’re still recommending face coverings for our team members and customers in busy indoor spaces unless they are exempt.”
The statement reflects one issued by supermarket chain Sainsbury's on Tuesday.
This said: "Safety remains our highest priority. From Thursday, we’re asking our customers and colleagues in England to continue to wear a face covering in our stores if they are able to.
"In Scotland and Wales face coverings remain mandatory for those who can wear them in our stores, in line with the latest Government restrictions.
"We continue to have a range of safety measures in all of our stores, including screens and sanitising stations."
As well as the changes on Thursday, testing and self-isolation requirements for people arriving in England are to be dropped next month.
From February 11, fully vaccinated arrivals will no longer need to take a coronavirus test, and the requirement for those not in that category to self-isolate will be dropped.
