ARGOS has started reopening its standalone stores – here’s everything you need to know.

The retailer shut all 700 of its standalone stores on March 23 after Prime Minister Boris Johnson told all “non-essential” shops and services to close.

But these stores will start to reopen for customers today, June 15, after the PM announced an easing of lockdown rules.

Until now, shoppers have only been able to order from Argos via its concessions within Sainsbury’s supermarkets.

These have remained open during lockdown for online order collections only.

Here's everything you need to know.

Which Argos stores are open?

Argos has today welcomed back customers to 145 of its standalone stores.

Like its Sainsbury's concessions, these stores will only be accepting click and collect orders – this means you'll need to order and pay for your items online first.

Sadly, Argos hasn't revealed a list of exact locations for its reopened stores but the retailer says its "first phase of stores based on where customers can not currently easily access an Argos store in a Sainsbury’s supermarket".

It advises customers to use the Argos store finder tool to check if their nearest branch is open.

The retailer says it hopes to reintroduce shopping in stores "in the coming weeks".

Click and collect from Argos is free.

What time are Argos standalone shops open?

Opening times vary depending on the location of your nearest store, so we'd recommend checking the store finder tool first before making the journey.

Most Argos stores open at either 8am or 9am, and shut at 7pm, 8pm or 9pm, Monday to Saturday.

Sunday hours are typically 10am until 4pm, or 11am until 5pm.

What changes are in place in Argos stores?

Argos has social distancing measures in place, which means you may have to queue to get inside stores.

There are also safety screens at tills to help keep staff safe.

As workers will also be following social distancing guidelines, Argos says it may take longer than usual to get your order ready.

In an update to customers, Argos CEO Simon Roberts said: "Our colleagues will be following social distancing guidelines at all times, including when they collect items from the warehouse and bring them to the collection counter.

"This might mean it takes them a little longer than usual
to serve you – please bear with them, they are doing everything they can to help you in these exceptional circumstances."

Argos has also extended its returns policy, meaning any purchases made from March 1 can be returned up to 30 days after its standalone stores reopen.

Can I order items for home delivery from Argos?

Yes, Argos has continued to offer home delivery throughout lockdown.

For home delivery, you'll need to order and pay for your item online.

Delivery typically costs from £3.95 depending on the size of the item.

Which shops are open today? Charity, betting and toy stores among those returning.

As shops reopen, hundreds of Primark and Sports Direct customers have been seen forming long queues to get inside stores.

But which shops haven't been so lucky, and have closed down for good during lockdown?

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