U.K. Shoppers Show Pent-Up Demand on Release From Lockdown

Bars and restaurants can only serve customers outdoors
U.K. seeks to revive economy while avoiding new virus wave

After almost 100 days of Covid lockdown, the U.K. is open for business again.Source: Bloomberg)

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By Deirdre Hipwell, Thomas Buckley, and Joe Mayes

April 12, 2021 at 4:00 AM UTC

Updated on

April 12, 2021 at 12:16 PM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

Consumers flocked to shopping streets across England on Monday as non-essential retailers reopened after almost 100 days of lockdown, along with pubs and restaurants with outdoor space.

Shoppers lined up outside retailers on London’s famous Oxford Street, including the luxury department store Selfridges and outlets of sneaker retailer JD Sports Fashion Plc. Businesses are hoping the pent-up demand following England’s third lockdown will translate into bumper sales.