Evans Cycles will reopen 11 of its stores across the UK to assist key workers travelling by bike for essential journeys during the coronavirus pandemic.
The company announced that 'a selection of stores within key cities and built up areas have been re-opened by those who have volunteered to return to work and are keen to play their part in supporting key workers during the virus outbreak.'
The 11 stores to reopen will are as follows: Kingston, Cheltenham, Gatwick, Reading, Guildford, Manchester-Trafford, Sheffield, Leicester, Clapham, Notting Hill and Kings Cross.
All stores will provide free bike MOTs to key workers including brake adjustment, pumping up tyres and offering mechanical advice.
Initially, parent company Fraser Group, which is run by billionaire Mike Ashley, had decided to keep its Evans Cycles and Sports Direct stores open despite the coronavirus lockdown with a claim that both offered products that help 'maintain a healthy lifestyle'.
After a backlash, Ashley reversed his decision and announced all his stores would close. This has yet again been reversed for selected Evans Cycles stores with the Government outlining bicycle shops are essential retailers.
The 11 stores will now adhere to strict rules regarding social distancing such as limiting the number of people in-store at once and marking 'two metre zones' throughout the store.
Customers who are not making essential journeys will be encouraged to continue shopping online.
'We have already seen that the bicycle is becoming a preferred means to keep key workers moving. With this in mind, where it is possible and safe to do so, a selection of our stores will reopen focusing on essential maintenance services or to provide parts that will help people stay safe on the road,' said a spokesperson.
'Early feedback from customers has been very positive and they clearly value the support we are providing at this time. This is not business as usual. Maintaining the wellbeing of our store colleagues and customers is essential and, as such, stores will follow stringent measures on social distancing and cleanliness.
'We urge all customers to follow the Government’s guidance and only travel to our stores where necessary. We will continue to review which stores are open, ensuring we strike the right balance between providing essential services and protecting the health of colleagues and customers.'