THE TRIAL ROOM DEBATE FINDING A PLAUSIBLE SOLUTION

Trial rooms are a huge advantage that the brick-and-mortar stores have over e-commerce, and nothing can replace the in-person experience of trying on an item in the changing room, but are they safe in the midst of a pandemic?

- Shivam Gautom

As lockdown restrictions are eased and the retail fraternity is getting ready to reopen stores and welcome back shoppers, the focus has shifted towards trial rooms. Trial rooms are a huge advantage that the brick-and-mortar stores have over e-commerce, and nothing can replace the in-person experience of trying on an item in the changing room, but are they safe in the midst of a pandemic?

Even after the pandemic ends and consumption starts showing signs of upward movement, consumer sentiment will continue to be cautious with safety and sanitization being the top priority. It will be the same for brands and retailers as well –safeguarding the health of employees and customers alike will be crucial for them. Human life will take precedence over all and everything that threatens to jeopardise the safety of people will become obsolete – like fitting rooms.

Hence, most brands and retailers that have re-opened stores are hitherto left with just two options - either keep trial rooms off-limits or sequester clothes that have been tried on in a fitting room.