Williams-Sonoma making some in-store changes for the holidays

Williams-Sonoma will be offering some new services this holiday season as it looks to protect the health and safety of its store employees and customers.

The retailer will position check-out registers toward the front of the store where top gift picks will be located to allow fast and efficient check out.  It will also offer private shopping appointments outside of normal store operating hours for customers who may be health compromised.

In addition to offering contactless curbside pickup and online order pickup at UPS Access Point locations, Williams-Sonoma will have a dedicated online order pickup line outside its stores. And waiting list apps will be used to allow customers to check in and reserve their spot in line, allowing them to leave and return when they have virtually reached the front of the line.

Store employees will continue to serve customers via virtual services such as “Ask the Experts” and “Design Chat.” The retailer said it plans to dedicate more associates to serving customers and taking orders over the phone at each store.

“We know how important the holidays are to our customers,” said Laura Alber, president and CEO, Williams-Sonoma. “We are adapting to our customers’ evolving needs and focusing on helping them enjoy their time at home this holiday season.”

The company noted that social distancing limitations and heightened cleaning protocols are strictly in place at its stores. Store employees are required to pass a wellness health check prior to each shift daily. Employees associates and customers are required to wear facial masks.