Quebec’s manufacturing and construction sectors will avoid a total lockdown during the four-week “shock treatment” announced yesterday by Premier François Legault. They are however being asked to focus on essential goods and projects. Hardware stores remain on the list of essential businesses, though they may not sell non-essential items and will have to close at 7:30 p.m. to allow employees to respect the 8 p.m. curfew going into effect Saturday.
At the same time, the province is loosening restrictions on curbside pickup. Currently, only businesses permitted to remain open for in-person shopping may offer the service. Beginning Saturday, even non-essential businesses will be allowed to operate for curbside pickup. The curfew, which extends till 5 a.m. with limited exemptions, will continue until Feb. 8.
