Clarks shoes has confirmed it is closing its shops temporarily in a bid to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The retailer, which is headquartered in Street, Somerset, has also reportedly closed its stores in Ireland and the US.
Staff working for the business will be paid during the closure, according to the company.
It is not known how long the 441 shops will be shut for but Clarks said it would "continue to monitor the situation" and will continue operating online.
A company spokesperson said: “As part of our enduring commitment to the health and safety of our employees, customers and surrounding communities, we have temporarily closed all Clarks owned stores in the UK, Ireland and the USA.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and will be reviewing the decision of when to re-open our stores when the health and wellbeing of our employees and customers can be protected, and following guidance from government and health authorities.
“Our store employees will continue to receive pay and benefits during this temporary closure.
“We’re grateful for our loyal customers and while our stores are temporarily closed, we look forward to sharing our full range with them (online)."
Clarks is among the first major retailers to close its shops over the virus outbreak.
Oxfam has also shut more than 600 stores, according to the Retail Gazette, and Ikea is closing its stores from 6pm today (Friday, March 20).
