What is essential in stores during COVID-19?

What is essential in stores?

The Quebec government has placed a lock down on all non-essential business in Quebec as of December 25, 2020. However the question remains what is essential in stores?

The Quebec government has not provided any kind of detailed list of what is essential and non-essential and this is causing confusion with retailers and customers. For example: You can buy paper towels but not napkins in some stores.

The government has listed a general list for non-essential products and services:

  • clothing
  • books
  • electronics
  • appliances
  • furniture
  • toys
  • plus these items are not allowed to be picked up curb side.
  • restaurants (Dining rooms closed but pick and delivery available)
  • Beauty industry closed
  • Theatres closed
  • Gyms closed

The government list for essential businesses to remain open:

  • Grocery stores for food only
  • Pharmacies (products for everyday life)
  • Hardware stores (only products required for home maintenance)
  • Pet food stores
  • Gas stations
  • Garages to repair cars and trucks
  • Safety work equipment stores

The government says all non-essential products can be purchased online however they must be delivered.

Other articles from mtltimes.catotimes.caotttimes.ca

Montreal Police checked over 7900 locations

COVID-19 – Montreal Police checked over 7900 locations for illegal gatherings so far

15000 deaths due to COVID-19

Canada tops 15000 deaths due to COVID-19

Halle Berry names Cunningham's Pub best chicken wings

Halle Berry names Cunningham’s Pub best chicken wings (video)

From T8 Tubes to Linear Retrofit: Modernize Your Lighting

From T8 Tubes to Linear Retrofit: Modernize Your Lighting Without Tearing Down the Ceiling

For many building owners, warehouse managers, or home workshop enthusiasts, the ceiling is a landscape of aging metal boxes housing flickering fluorescent tubes. These fixtures, while functional for decades, have become a source of mounting frustration. Between the humming ballasts and the constant need to replace burnt-out bulbs, the maintenance cycle feels never-ending. The good

Complete Guide to Wigs in Montreal

The Complete Guide to Wigs in Montreal

Types, care, medical solutions, and where to shop — 2026 The Wig Industry: A Market in Transformation The global hair wigs and extensions market is valued at approximately USD $7.78 billion in 2025, with North America commanding the largest share at 39.6%. According to Grand View Research, the market is projected to reach $12.27 billion

CPAP MAchines Montreal

CPAP Machines in Montreal: The Complete Guide

How to choose, buy, and use your sleep apnea treatment A Massively Under-Diagnosed Public Health Issue Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most widespread chronic conditions in Canada – and yet it remains largely undetected. According to a 2024 study published in the Canadian Journal of Public Health based on more than 51,000

Best Appliance Repair Companies in Montreal

2026 Ranking: The 10 Best Appliance Repair Services in Montreal

An independent comparison based on Google reviews, service quality, and local reputation – Updated March 2026 A broken appliance is more than an inconvenience – it disrupts your daily routine, wastes energy, and can lead to costly water or food damage if left unaddressed. Whether it’s a refrigerator that’s stopped cooling in the middle of

Female professional cleaner holding cleaning supplies

How to Choose the Right Professional Cleaning Service for Your Home

Choosing the right professional cleaning service for your home involves evaluating your specific cleaning needs, checking the company’s reputation, verifying their services and pricing, and ensuring they are reliable and trustworthy. By comparing service offerings, reading customer reviews, and considering the expertise of trusted cleaning service providers, you can select a cleaning service that fits