When the pandemic hit, most of us thought showrooms would shut down forever. Instead, they quickly adapted, and many are now running with new rules that keep shoppers safe. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to know what’s different, why it matters, and how to make the most of your trip.
First thing you’ll notice is the mask rule. Most showrooms ask everyone to wear a mask at the entrance and provide disposable ones if you forget. Hand‑sanitiser stations are placed near entry doors, elevators, and checkout counters, so a quick rub before you walk in is easy.
Staggered entry times are another common trick. Instead of a long line of cars, you’ll get a text or a call with a slot – usually a 15‑minute window – that helps keep crowds down. Inside, floor markings guide you to keep a 2‑meter distance from others. Some places even use floor‑level lighting to remind you where to stand.
Touch‑free tech has grown a lot. Many showrooms now have QR‑code menus for product info, contactless payment options, and voice‑activated kiosks. This cuts down on shared surfaces and speeds up the buying process.
Online browsing is now a must‑have. Showrooms upload full catalogs, 360‑degree videos, and live demos so you can check out items before you step inside. Some even let you schedule a private walkthrough, which means you get one‑on‑one attention without waiting in a busy showroom.
Home‑delivery and curb‑side pickup have become standard. If you find something you like, you can often order it on the spot and have it delivered within a few days. For larger items like furniture or appliances, many retailers offer free assembly and installation, which helps keep you out of the store longer.
Customer service staff are now trained to ask about health concerns and suggest the best way to shop safely. They’ll wear gloves, use disinfected tablets for paperwork, and keep a clear path for you to move around.
All these changes might feel like a lot, but they’re designed to protect you and the staff while keeping business moving. The good news? Many of these habits, like online catalog browsing and contactless payment, are here to stay, making future visits smoother.
So next time you head to a showroom, remember to bring a mask, be ready for a short check‑in, and consider checking the retailer’s website first. You’ll get the latest safety info, see what’s on sale, and maybe even skip the line. Covid‑19 reshaped the way we shop, but it also pushed retailers to be more convenient and safer than ever before.
Covid-19 cases are climbing rapidly in Hong Kong and Singapore, with positivity rates and severe cases hitting year-long highs. The uptick has disrupted daily life, sparked calls for booster shots, and put health authorities across Asia on high alert.