Barber cuts ahead with innovative queuing app
A barber based in Worcester has launched a virtual queuing app designed to keep customers and staff safe in the beauty industry and to allow for an easier return to work once lockdown is eased.
The IOS and android application QSafe launched by Ellis Campbell, who owns Ellis Campbell & Co based on Broad Street, is designed to help businesses in the hair and beauty industry who offer walk-in services, allowing customers to join a virtual queue so social distancing can be maintained
Each business which subscribes for £25 per month gets a unique QR code which they can place inside the shop window.
Customers who download the app can then scan the code on their phones and are then placed in a virtual queue and receive a notification when they are ready to be seen, helping maintain social distancing.
Campbell, who has run the barber shop for 10 years, said: “After shutting my shop at the end of March due to Covid-19, I have been exploring different ways to support the reopening of my shop, when it’s safe to do so, and in line with the government guidelines.
“Like many others in the industry, we do not operate a booking system and needed to introduce new measures to comply with social distancing rules.
“The new app helps businesses who offer walk-in services. Customers download the app and check in by scanning their smart phone, joining the virtual queue. Customers can go off, look in other shops or grab a coffee while they wait – a notification on their phone will let them know when it’s their turn. ”
Campbell said that he created the app with social distancing as the priority but now thinks that that motivation will become secondary in the long-run and plans to roll out the system to other sectors.
He said: “We have already had some interest from department stores wanting to trial the app for their make-up counters. We also hope to gauge interest from doctors and dentist surgeries, and pharmacies, enabling people to avoid queuing or having to wait to pick up prescriptions.
“It really is the simplest idea I’ve ever had and I’m really excited about the app’s future.”
For more information or to sign up for a trial, contact info@myqspace.co.uk.
All businesses can subscribe at www.myqsafe.co.uk
