Stores and cinemas close to help combat Covid-19
BUSINESSES across the UK are weighing up their options in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Official guidance from the UK Government advises businesses, including pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops, to take heightened precautions to combat the spread of the virus.
But as of Monday, March 16, official UK Government advice has not echoed that of authorities in Italy, Spain and France where stricter measures have been put in place.
In Spain, citizens are barred from leaving home except to buy essential supplies and medicines, receive medical treatment or travel to work.
In France, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and most shops are now shut.
While most customerfacing businesses are still open in Wales and the UK, some have decided to take pre-emptive action ahead of official advice.
Vans has stores in Cardiff and an outlet at McArthur Glen in Bridgend.
A notice placed on the Cardiff branch on Monday read: “After careful consideration of the evolving coronavirus situation, we’ve decided to temporarily close our stores in the UK.
“At this point, this store will remain closed until further notice.
“The health and wellbeing of our community remains our highest priority and we are closely monitoring the situation so that we can reopen our store locations.
“Until then, visit us at www.vans.co.uk to get the news on the latest product releases.”
Timberland also has branches in Cardiff and an outlet in Bridgend.
A statement on the front of the Timberland shop in Cardiff said: “Following the Covid-19 outbreak we kindly inform you that we have decided to temporarily close our store until further notice.
“Our goal is to always guarantee the best shopping experience and protect our customers and employees.
“We invite you to continue your shopping experience online at: www. timberland.co.uk”
All Odeon cinemas have closed their doors until further notice.
The chain has a cinema in Bridgend.
In statement on Twitter, the group said: “Following government guidelines, Odeon cinemas are closed until further notice.
“If you have pre-booked tickets online, these will be refunded automatically. For any specific questions, please contact our Guest Services Centre.
“We look forward to welcoming you back soon.”