Techniek Nederland asks State Secretary Mona Keijzer of Economic Affairs and Climate to make a collection desk possible at electronics stores. Customers can visit there by appointment to pick up ordered products themselves. According to chairman Doekle Terpstra, this relaxation of the store closure is necessary to prevent lasting economic damage.

“We must prevent corona infections and at the same time create space for entrepreneurs. A pick-up counter gives the retail trade some air again, without creating crowds in shops and shopping streets, ”says Doekle Terpstra.

Uneven playing field
Electronics stores are currently allowed to deliver products that have been ordered online at home. Picking up products from a branch ('click & collect') is not allowed. According to Techniek Nederland, this creates an uneven playing field.

Terpstra: “Consumers are allowed to pick up products from restaurants and do-it-yourself stores, but not from electronics stores. Collection is also possible from our retailers without any risk of contamination ”.

Consultations by appointment
If it is up to Techniek Nederland, advisory meetings in the shop should also be possible - by appointment only. Terpstra: “Electronics retailers are in dire straits. With responsible easing, we prevent companies from collapsing or having to rely on government support measures ”.

Shop closure drives customers to foreign providers
For electronics retailers, the combination of online sales and physical sales is essential. This allows them to compete with large, foreign online platforms. Techniek Nederland believes that the State Secretary should act quickly.

Doekle Terpstra: “The store closure is driving more and more consumers to large, foreign platforms for their electronics purchases. The longer it takes, the more likely those customers will not return after the pandemic. Amazon already has a 7% share in Dutch electronics sales. Retailers are suffering economic damage and jobs are being lost ”.

Vital importance
Technology Netherlands points out that electronics stores are vital during lockdown. These companies guarantee the ICT facilities that make it possible to work from home and receive online education. In addition, the products and services of electrical retail are indispensable for a healthy and comfortable life at home. That is now more important than ever.

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