A scenario in which Apple could close all Apple Stores around the world seemed unimaginable just a while ago. But now that is exactly what has happened.
Tim Cook announced in an open letter that the company will close all retail locations outside of China until March 27 due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis. In the personal letter in which Cook informs customers about the store closures, he explains that China has taught us that the most effective way to minimize the risk of coronavirus transmission is to reduce population density and maximize social distancing. For this reason, Apple stores will now remain closed for two full weeks. The Write:
As of today, all of our stores in Greater China are open again. I would also like to thank our operations team and partners for their remarkable efforts to restore our supply chain. What we have learned together has helped us all develop best practices that will help us tremendously in our global response.
One of those lessons is that the most effective way to minimize the risk of virus transmission is to reduce density and maximize social distancing. As rates of new infections continue to rise in other locations, we are taking additional steps to protect our team members and customers.
We will close all of our retail stores outside of Greater China until March 27.
online store remains open
Cook explained that customers who need devices or accessories can make purchases through the online store. Service requests will also be accepted through the dedicated support website. Apple also plans to continue to pay all employees on an hourly basis during store closures. At the same time, leave policies have been expanded to accommodate personal or family health circumstances created by COVID-19, including recovering from an illness, caring for a sick loved one, mandatory quarantine, or childcare challenges. (Photo by Bhubeth Bhajanavorakul / Bigstockphoto)
