“Feels like Christmas” Retailers rejoice as shutdown ends

ONE Toowoomba retailer reports what amounts to a roaring trade in a COVID-affected economy.

THERE were signs of life returning to normal at Grand Central today as the mall slowly filled with customers talking advantage of the relaxed COVID-19 restrictions.

Overall foot-traffic was well below a typical Saturday and most speciality store remained closed.

But those that opened had long lines out their doors as customers respected social distancing guidelines.

Jewellery retailer Pandora reopened last week and by today it had what amounts to a roaring trade in a COVID-affected economy.

Store manager Sophie Stocker said it was good to see customers return to the centre.

"It feels like Christmas," she said.

"From 9.45am it was non-stop.

 "The first day we were opened I was not expecting many people, but I think shoppers were bored so they came out."

Grand Central shopping centre, first day of eased restrictions for shopping. Saturday, 2nd May, 2020. Picture: Nev Madsen

Customers in the store was a welcome change.

For the most of the COVID-19 shutdown Ms Stocker and her staff relied on one-on-one sales to keep the business in the black.

Ms Stocker said the idea came from a customer.

"It was an awesome option," she said.

"We could keep that 1.5m distance, clean everything once the customer left and not worry about another customer coming in."

The relaxed COVID-19 restrictions come just as Pandora and many other Toowoomba retailers prepared for one of their busiest weeks of trade, leading up to Mother's Day.

"As the days go on more people will venture out," Ms Stocker said.

"Leading into Mother's Day next weekend the traffic is going to be high."

Grand Central shopping centre, first day of eased restrictions for shopping. Saturday, 2nd May, 2020. Picture: Nev Madsen

Originally published as “Feels like Christmas” Retailers rejoice as shutdown ends