Boscov’s closes stores, offices temporarily
READING, PA. » Boscov’s, America’s largest family- owned department store, has temporarily closed all of its stores and offices due to the ongoing health emergency.
The Pennsylvania-based company’s four New York locations - in Clifton Park, Albany, New Hartford and Binghamton - are all currently closed, along with all 45 others in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Ohio.
In a letter to customers, Boscov’s chairman and CEO Jim Boscov said this closure is for everyone’s safety. “Throughout this crisis, our first priority has always been the health and safety of our coworkers, customers and our communities,” he said, noting that the company has been guided by the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as other medical and governmental authorities.
“We’ve closed all 49 stores, distribution centers and offices because we believe it is the most effective way to stop the spread of COVID-19. We urge all businesses and individuals to follow the best advice of the medical community and be part of the solution,” Boscov continued.
“All of us, in every community across the country are facing a rapidly evolving and unprecedented crisis. Our hearts go out to all of those being impacted,” he added.
“This pandemic will challenge us all,” the company leader said to customers in the letter, looking toward the future. “Difficult decisions have been made, but I’m confident, with the help of our business partners and our incredible team of coworkers, we will successfully navigate this crisis.
“And I promise that when we reopen our doors, customers will find the same incredible service, selection and pricing that Boscov’s is known for.”
Boscov shared that employees from all sites that closed last week will be paid for a two-week period following the closure.
Also, those on the company’s
medical plan will be covered throughout the month of April, with Boscov’s paying 100 percent of the premium.
Beyond that, “We don’t know what to expect,” Boscov said on Monday morning, noting that he’s waiting to hear news from Washington, D.C. regarding what is best for the staff.
Additional information will be shared with employees in the coming days and weeks.
“We’re doing it piece by piece,” Boscov said. “We’ve announced the closing for two weeks, we’re certainly going to pay them for that period.”
Customer service is not available at this time, according to an audio message alerting callers of the closure effective March 19.
“We hope to resume services in 14 days,” it said. “Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience. We appreciate your business and your patience.”