Independent traders at Fabrication in Leeds set to re-open with a VIP experience for customers

A hub of independent businesses will treat shoppers who are nervous about venturing back on to the high street like royalty.
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Fabrication, a collective of creative and independent businesses based on Albion Street, has had a complete re-design since it was forced to close earlier this year due to the coronavirus lockdown.

It will be back in business from tomorrow (Wednesday June 17) with a new one-way system enabling safe social distancing, sanitisers at the doorway, staff training in customer reassurance and support plus a new checkout area with Perspex screen.

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However, if customers still feel nervous about stepping back onto the high street, then Fabrication is promising a new free VIP shopping service, which allows customers to book slots for private browsing.

Fabrication will re-open from tomorrow (Wednesday).Fabrication will re-open from tomorrow (Wednesday).
Fabrication will re-open from tomorrow (Wednesday).

Fabrication CEO Dawn Wood said: “We know that many people can’t wait to try out the ‘new normal’ and get shopping again – but we know many remain anxious about browsing alongside others – even though we are limiting the numbers who can come into the shop at any one time.

“Many would find it uncomfortable leaving the ‘lockdown bubble’ and want to make the shopping experience as reassuring and gentle as possible for those getting out and about after a long spell at home.

"All of our customers are like royalty to us, and this is our way of trying to make them feel special. There will be no red carpet, no fuss, no fanfare, just time to shop and browse at their leisure in peace.”

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During lockdown, the social enterprise has been "thriving" rather than surviving and developing the business. A new website has been created and, more recently, a popular click-

LeedsBID and JPI Media are backing local businesses as the high street re-opens.LeedsBID and JPI Media are backing local businesses as the high street re-opens.
LeedsBID and JPI Media are backing local businesses as the high street re-opens.

and-collect service.

However, staff are keen to get back to business and Fabrication will have its official opening hours from 11am to 3pm Wednesday to Saturday to give space for half-hour solo browsing slots at the beginning and end of the day.

Ms Wood added: "We couldn’t be more pleased – and relieved that opening day is just around the corner – and we can’t wait to welcome our customers back again.”

Customers simply need to contact Fabrication via its Facebook page, Twitter feed or website and a member of staff will be in touch to arrange a personal browsing session lasting up to half an hour.

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