Spain to begin easing COVID-19 restrictions
Could it give a clue as to how the UK Government will begin to bring the nation out of the COVID-19 lockdown?
THIS week (4th May) the Spanish government allowed many small, and local businesses previously left closed by the COVID-19 pandemic to reopen and begin trading once again. This has meant that many motorcycle-specific businesses across the country have also begun to trade once more.
The move now means that small tyre sales and fitting centres have begun to reopen, along with tool shops and premises that previously only could offer mail-order delivery or click and collect. A number of motorcycle accessory shops have also opened up once again, although it is only smaller premises that are included – 400m2 or less. Larger premises, with a greater number of staff and potential customers, are for now remaining closed to the public.
While the restrictions are, in most people’s minds, a good move for the Spanish economy, they aren’t being taken without a healthy dose of precaution. With most shops only allowing access after the customer has called the shop to advise they wish to attend.
One tricky area for traders to re-open immediately is for clothing and accessories that need to be tried on prior to purchase. The traders and public are looking at the situation of trying on off-the-peg clothing and textiles with a fair amount of caution. While it’s likely that these stores will still want to trade, they’ll more than likely want to inhibit the amount of clothing that punters can try on in the store.
How is Spain moving out of COVID-19 restrictions?
The rest of the easing of the restrictions in Spain will follow a three-phase plan to get the country back to as much normality as they can.
Phase 0 – Prepare for de-escalation
Small premises and shops to open by appointment only. Travel restrictions within the province still restricted although families may walk without mixing with others.
Phase 1 – Partial opening of some activities
The opening of small non-essential shops without the need for appointment. Only 30% of the building’s capacity should be used – social distancing to be observed.
Phase 2 – Intermediate activities allowed
People can now travel to a second home in the same province and shops will allow the capacity to increase to 40%.
Phase 3 – Advanced activities allowed
Small shops and businesses can accept at 50% capacity and shopping centres and malls may reopen. Recreational areas to remain off limits.
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
