Meadowhall and Rotherham Currys PC World branches to reopen as 'tech hubs'

Currys PC World’s Meadowhall and Rotherham Parkgate branches will reopen on Monday, for the first time since lockdown was announced and non-essential shops were forced to shut.

It’s as the electrical retailer transforms 131 stores into ‘Tech Help Hubs’ for the first three days of their re-opening to give consumers technology advice and help with device problems, regardless of where it was purchased.

Customers can recycle all old and used equipment for free at Currys PC World’s stores, even if the device was bought elsewhere.

The computer giant will also introduce an extended returns policy to cover items bought in-store up to March 24, 2020 and accept valid returns until July 6.

Tech experts aim to help customers with technology challenges they have experienced within lockdown within the first three days of reopening, alongside issuing exchanges, repairs and returns.

There will be a limited number of customers allowed in branches at once, who will be required to follow a one-way system and abide by floor markings that aim to keep customers two metres apart.

Employees will serve behind safety screens at checkouts and service desks and consumers encouraged to use contactless payment.

From June 18, the 131 ‘tech hubs’ will revert back to normal stores, giving customers the chance to browse shelves and purchase products as normal.

The remainder of Currys PC World stores will be opened over the next few weeks.

Chief Operating Officer at Dixons Carphone Mark Allsop said: “Our three day ‘Tech Help Hub’ initiative is part of our commitment to put customers first – even customers that have previously chosen to buy their tech elsewhere.

“We’re pleased to be opening our stores slowly and safely across the UK & Ireland – and we will maintain extreme vigilance, constantly reviewing and improving our approach to safety in an ever-changing situation.

“Most importantly we’re proud of our colleagues themselves, people who continue to work hard to make sure consumers across the country get the tech they need safely.”