The boss of a well-known Perthshire department store has expressed his disappointment at Scotland’s delayed retail reopening, saying it is like cancelling a cup final.
Patrick Birkbeck, managing director at the House of Bruar, spoke out after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed most shops will have to wait until June 29 before they can open their doors again.
Many businesses had expected to be given the go-ahead to re-open this weekend, or early next week.
Mr Birkbeck said the announcement “is like reaching the final of the cup and then having it cancelled”.
He said: “We are prepared and we are very excited, but the big day has been delayed.
“Although the delay is a huge frustration, a confirmed date has now been established.”
Mr Birkbeck added: “I cannot express how disappointed my team and I are that we cannot open our whole shop next week, but we can’t wait to see everyone the following week.
“We are champing at the bit and the new guidance means that everything will open on a specified date.”
Mr Birkbeck spoke out as one part of his Blair Atholl business was able to open.
The House of Bruar fish and chip shop open its doors for takeaways, providing a pitstop for local customers and those travelling up and down the A9.
Staff have spent several days getting the store prepared, serving up a full menu of haddock, cod, pies and even lobster.
House of Bruar, which has kept its food hall open throughout lockdown, wasn’t the only Perthshire business to express surprise at Thursday’s announcement.
Whispers of the Past, in Perth’s George Street, posted on social media: “I must admit I was slightly taken aback by the announcement that we can’t reopen until June 29.
“I understand that we have to be careful, but when places like Matalan, Dunelm Mill and Sterling Warehouse are all now open and trading, I fail to see why small businesses have to wait another week.”
