All retail stores can open longer hours throughout January throughout all three tiers in a boost to the high street after difficult trading conditions this year.

In amendments to the standard laws for trading, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick announced that shops can open in a Covid-Safe manner and rules regarding opening hours will be loosened, allowing some stores to open 24 hours.

The aim is not only to increase business but allowed for staggered shopping hours and for shoppers to avoid peak times and continue to maintain social distancing.

The extended opening hours will enable retailers to offset the limited footfall as a result of social distancing rules, which require customers to be spaced apart, as well as wear a face-covering in stores.

This rule applies for all essential and non-essential retail stores in all three tiers, with the only exception being restaurants and hospitality venues that do not deliver in tier 3 when these venues are required to close.

How these rules will be implemented will be dependent on individual local councils, with them ultimately having the last word on how and when shops can open.

As many stores will have staggered opening times, this will enable the bright lights from within your structural glass systems and shopfronts to once again take centre stage and bring new customers in over a longer period of time.

With the recommendation for people to work from home where possible, this flexibility is a boon for customers as well, who can more precisely cater their shopping time around more fragmented schedules.