Whilst some Camera House stores are operating with reduced hours and some have temporarily closed, decisions have been made based on local conditions and to maintain a high level of employee and customer safety, according to general manager of Raleru – parent company of Camera House – Paul Rogers.
“All Camera House stores are independently owned and operated and as such, decisions about trading – whether in a shopping centre or in a regional area – are being made by individual store owners,” he told Appliance Retailer.
“Camera House is a group of independent but aligned retailers. As family owned and operated businesses we feel the impact of the spread of the COVID-19 virus as people rather than as a brand and feel the impact on our friends and families, our staff and local communities rather than as an unprecedented global pandemic,” he said.
“Our ongoing focus is the health and wellbeing of all the Camera House extended family – our store owners, our staff, our communities and you, our valued customer.
“We recognise these are tough times. We are committed to ensuring an optimal level of adherence to authority recommendations and acknowledge the incredible and thankless contribution being made daily by the valiant health services workers and experts who are tasked with keeping the community safe. We are monitoring expert advice daily to minimise the impact on our people and we will implement sensible and practical measures to ensure we are as safe and supported at work as in our own homes.
“We are strong believers in the resilience of the Australian consumers and anticipate they will recover from this adversity in the same way they have weathered other storms, with dignity and resilience and embracing the Australian spirit of helping their mates through difficult times.
“We support each other as part of our group, and we urge members of the community to do the same. Our members access a truly efficient and agile national support network that moves rapidly to adapt to the ever-changing landscape.
“Our national website camerahouse.com.au continues to be a destination for both products and services and utilises the largest specialty photographic goods warehouse in Australia to supply customers with rapid delivery anywhere in the country. A click and collect service is on offer for those customers seeking to minimise contact with others, but all stores are vigilant about the health and safety of both staff and customers.
“Our online printing solution is well placed to secure our customers sense of family as they find time to archive memories by printing their digital images.
“Whether you need equipment or advice to set up video conferencing or just advice as you shift to operating remotely, we are here to help you through any challenge you may face from organising and operating your gear through to your great idea.
“We have seen rough times before and Australians are nothing if not stoic in the face of adversity. We wish you and your loved ones ongoing health and happiness and look forward to seeing you in the near future. Thank you for your ongoing support. We are all in this together.”