Nike is Closing All its US Stores Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

2020 is feeling a bit apocalyptic thus far thanks to COVID-19, and now the pandemic-inducing virus is causing Nike to close all its US stores. And if that wasn’t enough, the Oregon-born sportswear giant is going to shut its stores in Canada, New Zealand, Australia and Western Europe (to name a few) come 27th March.

The decision was made by Nike to take more preventative measures to stop the virus spreading and the brand’s statement said, “The well-being of our teammates and consumers is our top priority so we have decided to close our stores in multiple countries around the world to limit the spread of the Coronavirus.” The brand also stated that most of their stores in Japan, South Korea and China will stay open but will be examined daily.

Nike isn’t the first company to shut its doors to protect staff and customers. Apple, Urban Outfitters, Patagonia and many more have also closed their US stores due to COVID-19 and many others have amended working hours. It’s unclear what rules surround the pay at these companies, but Nike has promised to pay staff in full during the closures. So, there’s a glimmer of light in the apocalypse that is 2020.

In other news, images have released of the Nike SB Dunk Low Pro “Blue Fury”! Check them out.