Some Penneys customers face a 5-hour wait to book an appointment to shop in stores from Monday

It comes as businesses and consumers gear up for the easing of restrictions next week.

Intercounty travel, religious services, adult sports training and visits to gardens are some of the things people are excited for from Monday.

Penneys along with all non-essential retail will reopen for click-and-collect and for appointments.

Retail Excellence Ireland Managing Director Duncan Graham says there is a lot of optimism:

Other restrictions easing include numbers attending wedding and funeral services - which will now capped at 50 people

While public transport will go back to 50 percent capacity.