Is Argos open in lockdown? Opening times and hours explained
MILLIONS of businesses in England have been forced to close again during a third national lockdown - but what does it mean for Argos stores?
It's hoped the new rules will help stop the spread of a mutant strain of the virus that's believed to be behind a surge in hospitalisations.
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It's the third time England has been plunged into a national lockdown.
Once again, all non-essential shops have been ordered to temporarily close.
Pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and beauty salons must all shut down until restrictions are lifted - only essential shops like supermarkets are allowed to stay open.
Here, we explain what the new rules mean for Argos stores in England:
Is Argos open during lockdown?
Standalone stores across England are closed for shoppers to buy items in-stores, but you can still use them for click and collect.
It means you'll need to pay for your items online first before collecting them in stores.
Shoppers are not allowed to enter the shops, with staff bringing the items to them outside.
But if you need to return an item, you can't do this at Argos stores.
Argos shops inside Sainsbury's supermarkets are also only open for the collection of pre-paid online orders only.
You can returns items at these Argos stores within Sainsbury's when yo're picking up your essential shopping.
The rules apply to Argos shops in Wales too, which entered a new lockdown on December 20.
The same also goes for Argos stores in Northern Ireland, which entered into a lockdown in December 26.
Only the Stornoway branch of Argos in Orkney remains open as usual in Scotland. Otherwise, the same rules apply.
How can I return something to Argos stores if shops are closed?
If you don't want to go to an Argos shop in a Sainsbury's store, or you don't live near one, you shouldn't miss out on getting your money back.
Argos has extended its returns policies to help people in lockdown.
You can return purchases made from October 18 2020 up to 30 days from when non-essential stores are allowed to re-open.
The usual returns rules apply, for instance, you'll have to have a receipt or proof of purchase.
What businesses can stay open during lockdown?
Businesses that are providing an essential service can stay open.
This is the list of businesses that can remain open include:
- Supermarkets
- Pharmacies
- Garden centres
- Building merchants and suppliers of building products and off-licences
- Market stalls selling essential retail
- Businesses providing repair services but only if they primarily offer repair services
- Petrol stations
- Automatic (but not manual) car washes
- Vehicle repair and MOT services
- Bicycle shops
- Taxi and vehicle hire businesses
- Banks and building societies
- Post offices
- Short-term loan providers and money transfer businesses
- Funeral directors
- Laundrettes and dry cleaners
- Medical and dental services
- Vets and pet shops
- Animal rescue centres, boarding facilities, and animal groomers
- Agricultural supplies shops
- Mobility and disability support shops
- Storage and distribution facilities
- Car parks
- Public toilets
- Motorway service areas
- Outdoor playgrounds
- Outdoor parts of botanical gardens and heritage sites for exercise
- Places of worship
- Crematoriums and burial grounds
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