[Closed] Decathlon, Lakeside. Anyone been there recently❓

Sorry for the bump mods, hope it's ok.

I've been to the Ilkeston branch a few times recently, yes, it's a free for all.
Most people keep their distance, but then others touch you as they look at the same things as you are looking at. It was an old woman who pushed past me. I really should have coughed as she squeezed past.
Masks were worn by the majority. Sanitizers by the door, wipes for baskets etc. Self checkout only.

Went to a decathlon about 4 weeks ago or so (Nottingham store). Shelves were bare. Might be prudent to check stock levels of what you want first to save a wasted journey, and if you're just going for a browse and window shop then maybe reconsider.

But no issues with big or little stores in general in my experience. Or pubs, or restaurants etc. Everyone is being very sensible and respectful, following whatever COVID safe measures are in place at the establishment. Everyone masked up, patiently queuing and cleansing hands at every hand cleansing station and generally in good cheer trying to make merry of a crappy situation. At least around here. Don't believe everything you see and hear in the press. No angry mobs spitting everywhere that I've seen and I've been frequenting shops pretty much as per pre-covid normal since lockdown eased. But worrying signs panic buying again.

I have. if you use your noggin and go Sat early you will find a well organised security guard monitored outfit with few other shoppers. Attempt it at 1pm Saturday and you will find the zombie lost of Essex.

Only thing I found was that cycle stock was severely depleted.

( I even have a loyalty physical card!, I know, old Skool)

Have fun and keep a mental count of what’s going in the trolley or that bargain trip becomes less so.

I'd be going Sunday, early afternoon....I'm guessing that might be less that ideal.😐

Maybe check the traffic on Google Maps?

My son works there, as usual the traffic will be absolute carnage. Last week it took me 45 minutes to drive out of the car park due to backed up traffic.
Sadly, this is the norm for Lakeside.

A reasonable percentage of customers there still do not bother with masks, or just wear them on their chin as they are too busy gassing on their mobiles.

I grew up next to Lakeside and used to ride in the chalk pits.

Found the Gateshead one fine as in safety precautions etc but it was empty of stock! Certainly the cycling section, 1/5th of the bikes on show, 1/3rd of the accessories and clothing, just generally really poor. Actually went for a scooter for the little un, last time we were there loads of choice and she scooted around the store (pre Covid), this time not 1 scooter on show - when enquired was just told to go to their website.

I have been to my local Decathlon and it was fine distancing wise, they are pretty big shops so easy enough to spread out. There were a lot of empty shelves though and their check stock online system is worse than useless, it always has been.

Cheers guys, think I'll give it a miss and order online. Bit easier in-store with clothing sizes but that's no big deal.

Wednesday one was fine recently. It's a big old place so it's easier for people to space out.
Bike stock was limited, running stuff was fine, didn't look at anything else.
Almost everyone was on masks.
No fitting rooms thought, so if it's a size thing you might as well order online anyway.