GameStop will now briefly shut its retail places throughout the US and undertake a delivery-only method beginning March 22, the corporate introduced right this moment.
This follows an earlier resolution from firm executives to maintain its shops open even within the occasion of a full lockdown, claiming that it’s “essential retail” like grocery shops and pharmacies – that are each exempt from enforced shutdowns.
A letter obtained by Kotaku from GameStop CEO George Sherman tells retailer associates that GameStop shops that stay open will solely provide “Delivery at the Door” service, the place customisers will retrieve their order curbside on the door of the shop.
Additionally, GameStop is introducing new pay coverage updates. Hourly staff who’re eligible for paid time-off will obtain two weeks of further pay, whereas those that will not be PTO eligible will obtain two further weeks of base pay calculated on the weekly common variety of hours they’ve labored previously 10 weeks.
“I want to thank you all for your hard work as we continue to adjust our operations in response to the rapidly evolving coronavirus, COVID-19,” the letter begins. “The well being and security of every of you in addition to our clients is paramount and we’ve got, and can proceed to, take intensive precautions according to CDC tips. Whether you have got been impacted by retailer closures, lowered retailer hours, faculty closures or being restricted in visiting an older loved-one, we all know that this outbreak is impacting all of you, personally and professionally, in numerous methods. We will proceed to regulate our operations based mostly on any future native, state or federal developments and I hope that as all the time, you train warning and security via these unprecedented instances.
“I do know that a lot of you have got been voluntarily coming t work to help the hundreds of thousands of Americans going through unprecedented challenges as we adapt to a brand new regular. We imagine we’ve got and may proceed to have a optimistic influence throughout this very difficult time.
“We continue to closely monitor local, state and federal updates and guidelines and we are complying with all state, county and local ordinances. However, let me state clearly, in any location that continues to operate, we will not make you work if you don’t feel comfortable doing so. Please coordinate with your supervisor if that is the case. We respect that everyone has personal situations and preferences, so your decision will not impact your position with the company.”
It was solely final Thursday that GameStop notified its employees that retail shops would stay open.
“Due to the products we carry that enable and enhance our customers’ experience in working from home, we believe GameStop is classified as essential retail and therefore is able to remain open during this time,” the retailer said in a memo to staff.
“We have received reports of local authorities visiting stores in an attempt to enforce closure despite our classification. Store Managers are approved to provide the document linked below to law enforcement as needed.”
