Two more retail companies have joined the ranks of those looking to reopen stores this month as some U.S. states begin loosening lockdowns.
After closing down its stores, distribution centers and corporate offices in March, Burlington Stores said Monday it expects the first of its stores to reopen on or about May 11.
The retailer will take a number of precautions at these locations, including adding social-distancing signage, one-way entrances and exits, wider checkout lanes and increased space between the register and customers.
“In addition, we will take proactive steps to routinely clean and disinfect all areas of the store, including frequently cleaning high-touch areas, providing sanitization materials throughout the store, making shopping cart wipes available, and having deep cleaning response plans in place,” Burlington Stores CEO Michael O’Sullivan said. “Associates will be screened before returning to work, wear face coverings while in the store, and be provided gloves.”
O’Sullivan said Burlington will comply with all local ordinances and regulations as necessary and said the reopening effort will proceed “methodically and thoughtfully.” Later in the month, the company said it will also take this approach in opening corporate facilities and distribution centers.
Duluth Holdings Inc., the parent company behind Duluth Trading Company stores, said it plans to reopen 20 stores where restrictions have been lifted.
“In addition to taking extra precautions for our staff and customers, most of our stores are free-standing with ample parking, which will help us diligently maintain local health and safety guidelines,” Steve Schlecht, executive chairman and CEO of Duluth Trading, said. “With our omnichannel model, we are fortunate to have a strong online presence where we can provide uninterrupted and outstanding service to our customers.”
Duluth has continued to fulfill online orders from both warehouse and store inventory channels and offers contactless curbside pickup at some locations, Schlecht said.
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The workwear retailer has also partnered with the American Red Cross to donate 5 percent of the purchase price on select products to the relief organization. In addition, Duluth recently launched a women’s campaign highlighting the popularity of its Fire Hose Pants and No Yank Tank products as well as powerful and inspirational women.
Similar to actions by others in the retail space, Duluth has made some money moves in order to maintain liquidity, such as negotiating an incremental delayed draw term loan of $20.5 million along with a number of other cost-saving initiatives.