DIY retailer Homebase is expected to have reopened all of its shops over the weekend, with measures in place to protect shoppers.

The retailer’s 164 branches were scheduled to reopen yesterday following their closure in March as the country went into lockdown, the Mirror reported.

Although Homebase counts as an “essential retailer” and could have stayed open, the stores closed to ensure the protection of staff.

Last week, Homebase opened 20 stores as a trial. Another 50 followed on Wednesday, after it was clear that the first tranche of openings had been successful.

Homebase rival B&Q has also reopened stores. The Kingfisher-owned DIY market leader was trading from all 288 branches by the end of last week after about half were opened a week earlier.

Both retailers have followed the example set by the big supermarket chains by introducing measures such as perspex screens to protect staff, cashless payment and clearly marked queuing points so that shoppers remain two metres apart.

The DIY groups are the latest to reopen. Food specialists such as Pret a Manger and KFC have been opening branches on a limited basis, such as takeaway-only or close to hospitals where NHS staff can be catered for.