Falkirk's Callendar Square shopping centre reopens for business

The shopping centre was able to open up to customers yesterday when further restrictions were eased part of phase three of the Scottish Government’s lockdown route map.

Shop owners took great delight in lifting up shutters and welcoming back customers to stores kitted out with social distancing-friendly hygiene and safety measures.

Among the businesses to reopen was Envy Gowns.

With school proms a major revenue driver for the boutique, the summer months tend to be quieter as most orders are made at the start of the year.

However, owner Carol Wilson says she’s just pleased to be able to return to work.

She said: “We haven’t done any business whatsoever during lockdown because we don’t sell online so we haven’t made a penny.

“We were very happy to get back and we’ve got a couple of appointments already and a lot of dresses stored with us.

“A lot of our dresses are for proms or weddings and obviously these thing aren’t now going ahead.

“We’re resolving things amicably so far and just hoping everything ticks over now.

“We’ve got our sale on which is usually quite popular. It’s about getting people out. I don’t think people are back into that yet. Maybe they won’t be until the schools go back.

“We’re in the position where we aren’t footfall-based. People know where we are and what we sell and only come if they’re looking for something, but they know where to come when they’re looking for that thing.

“We’re now only showing half our stock because in order to have a one-way system we’ve had to take off one side of the displays so people aren’t crossing over when they come in and go out.

“We provide free face coverings in case people shouldn’t have their or forget theirs, hand sanitiser and rubber gloves.

“We’re open five days from 10am until 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday.”

Carol added: “I would like to thank everybody for their support, both during lockdown and since we’ve reopened.

“We’ve been about for 12 years so we’re not new but it’s always nice to know the support is still there for you.”

The Aayat Designs clothing store is another shop which is hoping its “mega sale” offer will entice customers back to Callendar Square.

Owner Robina Hussain said: “Business has been quiet.

“I’m crossing my fingers it’ll get busier. Tomorrow we’re doing a mega sale with discounts on all things.”

Aayat Designs is now open from 11am-3pm, Monday to Friday.

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