Apple Shuts All Retail Stores Outside China to Slow Coronavirus Spread
Apple is temporarily closing all of its retail locations outside of China until March 27 to maximize social distancing and protect workers from COVID-19.
Apple closes all of its retail stores outside of China until March 27 in an effort to slow the transmission of the COVID-19 coronavirus. Tim Cook states that this decision stems directly from the lessons the company learns while managing the initial outbreak in China, where reducing density and maximizing social distance prove to be the most effective safety measures.
The tech giant supports its workforce during this shutdown by continuing to pay all hourly workers as if the stores remain fully operational. Apple also expands its leave policies to accommodate various pandemic-related challenges, including illness recovery, caring for sick family members, mandatory quarantines, and sudden childcare needs caused by widespread school closures.
Beyond its internal workforce protections, Apple actively contributes to global virus response efforts by donating $15 million to the cause. The company further demonstrates its commitment by matching employee donations two-to-one, emphasizing its belief that technology and collective action serve as vital tools during this global health crisis.