#Covid-19: Next ceases online operations while River Island closes distribution centres

Retail giant Next has stopped their online operations due to the escalation of the Covid-19 crisis.

The news was announced via a statement, saying "Next will not be taking any more online orders until further notice". The decision took effect yesterday evening with the company saying it took the concerns of staff working in distribution centres and warehouses into account. This news follows the closure of Next stores on Monday 23 March. Earlier this week, Boris Johnson, UK Prime Minister, said that all non-essential shops and services must close as part of a three-week lockdown in the country. River Island yesterday announced that its distribution centre would now close after the recent temporary closure of stores. They continue to take online orders but there is no estimate on when these will arrive with customers. A statement said:

"Our warehouse and stores may be closed for a while, but our community is always open. As you stay at home, we want to be there with you, lightening the mood (if we can) and sharing entertainment and inspiration. "We’re looking forward to a time when the news changes less often than our outfit and will be back to our full gloryas soon as we can. Until then, we hope you stay connected; we’ll miss you if you don’t".

With these major fashion chains hutting up shop completely, it will be interesting to see if others follow suit.