A WELL-KNOWN store in Wrexham will remain open for essentials during the coronavirus outbreak.

Following the announcement made by Prime Minister, Boris Johnson on March 23, that all shops that are classed as 'an essential service retailer' are allowed to stay open during the virus pandemic, value retailer QD – QualityDiscounts.com have confirmed that its stores, including the one located on Hope Street, will remain open for the supply of essential goods, including food and drink, toiletries, essential household products, medicine and pet food.

They also stated that extra precautions are being put in place to ensure that staff and shoppers are protected.

As well as remaining accessible to the public, the store recently announced that it will be opening half an hour before scheduled opening times, exclusively for older and less able customers due to the recent panic buying that has resulted in shortages of stock around the area.

Karl Ottolangui, group operations director for QD, said: “Our stores are permitted to remain open following instructions from the UK Government.

"However, our priority is the protection of our staff and, to that end, measures are being put in place at all tills and other areas where staff and customers interact to ensure social distancing.

“Our customers have, not surprisingly, been highly receptive to social distancing measures and these will be stepped up at all our stores to continue to keep ours staff and our customers protected.

"We echo the Government’s message in urging everyone to stay at home unless they absolutely have to go out to shop for essential items."

Over the last week, the company has closed all of its coffee shops, play barns and play centres but all stores have remained open.

QD group chief executive, Nick Rubins, added: "This is a very challenging time for everybody as we are all worrying about our own health, our families’ health and our jobs.

"Proud is an understatement of how I feel about the QD team.

"I would like to thank our staff for their continued hard work to provide our loyal customers with vital everyday items during this challenging time."

QD stores will retain current opening hours but are monitoring the situation daily.

Customers can check for any updates on the QD website, www.qualitydiscounts.com.