If You Can, Now’s The Time To Shop Online – And These Websites Are Still Delivering

Life is a little strange for us all at the moment, with concerns both big (childcare, income, elderly parents, loneliness) and small (not being able to go spinning or get a haircut) looming large. All things considered, there’s never been a better time to treat yourself to a little pick-me-up.

Rather than feeling guilty about online shopping, if you are in a position to spend money right now, it will actually be beneficial to the economy.

The hospitality industry has already been hit by the government’s recommendation to avoid all non-essential contact, and the retail sector won’t be far behind. Selfridges announced yesterday that it would be closing its London, Manchester and Birmingham stores as of 7pm to help limit the spread of coronavirus, while & Other Stories is temporarily shutting many of its shops across Europe.

For the moment, e-commerce platforms are pretty much operating on a business-as-usual basis, with plenty offering extra incentives to customers trapped at home. Matchesfashion.com is offering free delivery on orders over £200, while Mytheresa.com is giving shoppers £100 off every order over £600.

'As a start-up, privately-owned business we will be relying on online sales to keep us afloat, to help us pay our team and fixed costs at the end of the month,' says co-founder of London-based Rixo, Henrietta Rix. 'At this time e-commerce and digital communication is key, but more importantly so is the feeling of community. At uncertain times like this coming together as one is vital!'

In response to the crisis, Rixo has also changed the way it's interacting with its 'community' online. 'We hope to provide some much needed joy amidst the present news cycle. In the last few days we have been highlighting inspiring stories and acts of kindness on our social channels. As well as this, we’ll have experts who will be doing takeovers to provide fitness, nutrition, mental health and self-care tips along with some light hearted activities - such as art tutorials, cocktail-making classes and some Rixo dress up - to lift spirits as our community navigates isolation.'

The high street is also continuing to process online orders, with Mango, Zara, Uterque, Warehouse, Boden, & Other Stories and Urban Outfitters confirming that they’re continuing as usual for now.

So, go on, treat yourself.

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