Pet stores and groomers to remain open

Yesterday (22 November), the entire retail sector apart from suppliers of essential items was closed in Austria. The ruling also applies to DIY stores and garden centres. The closure extends initially until 12 December, but is then expected to be rescinded only for those who have been vaccinated or have recovered from Covid. "With this measure, speciality stores must exclude around 35 per cent of potential customers, thus sales losses are a foregone conclusion," said Rainer Trefelik, spokesperson for the Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKÖ), with some concern.
Pet stores are not affected by the lockdown. Leading chains Fressnapf and Das Futterhaus, along with a host of independent pet shops, reacted quickly and reported on their social media channels that they were staying open. Sector experts don't expect any downturn in sales, not least on account of the trade that will be picked up from closed DIY stores and garden centres.
A lack of clarity prevailed initially with regard to grooming services, but the fear that they would be included in the lockdown under businesses providing personal care proved unfounded. Groomers will be permitted to continue working beyond 22 November.