Montreal area retailers set to reopen today

Businesses that were forced to close at the end of March due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be reopening on Monday in the Greater Montreal area, according to Global News.

Quebec has been hardest hit of any province and Montreal has had the highest case count in the province, however, retail stores that have a street level or outdoor entrance may reopen. Shopping malls will remain closed as they won't be able to maintain proper physical distancing.

The retail stores will be operating differently than prior to the economic closures, with additional protective measures put in place. Plexiglass may separate cashiers from patrons, and shoppers may be asked to practice no-touch browsing.

Of the retail business outside of the Greater Montreal area, those that have already opened said they have noticed a difference since reopening, such as reduced sales and changes in customers habits.

The Quebec government is allowing certain retail stores to open as part Premier Francois Legault's plan to slowly reopen the economy and lift those restrictions that were initially brought in to slow the spread of the virus.

Last Friday, the province permitted outdoor gatherings to return for up to 10 people. Businesses such as private health services, spas and beauty treatment facilities are expected to reopen next week. Daycares are expected to open next week as well.

As of Sunday, Quebec has 47,411 active cases of coronavirus and a death toll of 3,984 coronavirus-related deaths.

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