The latest Sydney lockdown is poised to be much less damaging for retail than the previous one, as relaxed rules have resulted in a number of stores staying open in the region.
David Jones, Optus, Officeworks and others have continued to trade through the lockdown, while others have chosen to close their doors. The definition of “essential retail” remains muddy, and the NSW Chief Health Officer doesn’t help clarify it.
“Practically it is impossible to define essential retail, because clearly if you’ve just relocated house and you have nothing with you, getting some bath towels and products are essential,” NSW’s Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said.
“We are saying, go out for essential goods. Therefore the retailers will calibrate their opening hours and many of the small retailers will close because, in essence, people are not out and about.”
