Apple Shuts All Retail Stores Outside China to Slow COVID-19 Spread
Apple temporarily closes all physical retail stores outside of Greater China until late March to maximize social distancing. The company continues online sales, pays hourly workers fully, and donates millions to pandemic relief efforts.
Apple temporarily closes all of its retail stores outside of Greater China until March 27 in an effort to slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. CEO Tim Cook announces the decision in a public letter, explaining that the company applies lessons learned from its recent experience in China where it successfully reopens all 42 locations. Cook emphasizes that reducing density and maximizing social distance represent the most effective ways to minimize virus transmission.
While physical doors close, customers continue to shop through Apple's online storefront and the official Apple Store app. Technical support and repair services remain available online, connecting customers with local Authorized Service Providers or mail-in options. To protect its workforce, Apple commits to paying all hourly workers their full wages during the two-week shutdown and updates policies to accommodate sick leave, quarantine, and childcare challenges.
Beyond its internal operations, Apple actively supports the global fight against the pandemic by donating $15 million to treatment and community relief efforts. The company also matches employee donations on a two-to-one basis to support local, national, and international COVID-19 response initiatives. Cook concludes the letter by expressing deep gratitude to first responders, doctors, nurses, and public health experts who are fighting on the front lines.