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<p>Throughout the pandemic, the Government has worked closely with retail representatives
to ensure that regulations are understood and correctly implemented within their establishments.
Shops have worked hard to adhere to Government guidance to ensure that their stores
are as Covid secure as possible, protecting both customers and retail staff.</p><p>The
Government introduced requirements to wear face coverings in relevant public settings
including shops and supermarkets (24 July) in England. This requirement was later
extended to include staff in all shops and supermarkets (24 September). The requirements
apply unless an individual is exempt or has a reasonable excuse not to wear a face
covering.</p><p>Businesses are encouraged to take reasonable steps to encourage customers
to follow the law, including through signs and providing other information in store.
The police have been given formal powers to address non-compliance including directing
individuals to wear a face covering, directing individuals to leave the relevant place,
and issuing a fixed penalty notice of £200 doubling upon repeat offences up to a maximum
of £6,400.</p>
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