Wearing facemasks in enclosed spaces such as supermarkets and shopping centres is now officially compulsory as part of the government’s new coronavirus guidelines in England from 24 July.
Customers must also wear a face covering when entering restaurants, takeaways and banks in order to prevent the spread of the illness which has become a global pandemic.
Staff who work within these facilities are exempt from this new rule due to many places installing plexiglass and practising social distancing, but are encouraged to do so.
Anyone who is seen or refuses to cover their mouth and noses will receive a £100 fine from the police and can be removed by force.
Face coverings may only be removed when eating, taking medication or to prove your identity.
Other exemptions include children under 11, people who rely on lip reading to communicate and anyone with certain underlying health conditions such as respiratory or mental health issues.
Health Minister Helen Whately said people could print out a card via the government's website to use as proof to retailers they do not need to cover their faces.
Public Health England (PHE), said that facemasks can be created from homemade fabrics such as scarfs and bandanas or purchase surgical masks.
However, some retailers had already announced prior to the new mandatory rules that they will not be enforcing the rule.
Costa Coffee said their staff would not challenge customers who do not wear a mask, while Greggs confirmed shoppers must when in store.
McDonald’s said anyone dining in their restaurants will be allowed to remove their covering but must be wearing one when ordering takeaways and using the toilets.
In Scotland, face coverings have been compulsory in shops from 10 July, while Northern Ireland will make a decision on the matter on 20 August.
Shoppers in Wales do not have to wear face masks while shopping but will have to on public transport from 27 July.
