Dunelm says that Dunlem.com is satisfying a high level of customer demand, with recent online order levels significantly higher than those seen prior to the onset of coronavirus.
The retailer implemented operational changes in order to re-open its first phase of online sales at the end of March, with a limited selection of homewares.
The company says that it is now fully operational, with the exception of some two man deliveries. It used external specialists, including NHS professionals, to ensure the safety of its staff prior to restarting online sales.
“I am immensely grateful for the dedication and commitment of our colleagues and supplier partners who have demonstrated great agility and determination in a dynamic and unprecedented situation,” commented Dunelm’s ceo Nick Wilkinson.
Dunelm also reports that it is supporting the NHS by producing medical gowns in its curtain manufacturing centre in Leicester. Dunelm employees have also been sewing laundry wash bags for health care workers in local hospitals and providing support in their local communities, helping people in vulnerable situations, care homes and hospices.
Meanwhile, Dunelm’s executive management team have taken a voluntary 20% pay reduction and ceo Nick Wilkinson has taken a voluntary 90% pay reduction from April to June. The retailer’s chairman and non-executive directors have waived 100% of their fees.
Nick expresses confidence that “we will emerge from this crisis as a stronger business ready to return to sustainable and profitable growth.”
