Flat pack furniture giant Ikea is to temporarily close all UK and Ireland stores until further notice - starting from 6pm on Friday, March 20.
Branches in 22 locations will shut their doors as the country continues to fight the deadly coronavirus - which has now claimed 128 lives in Britain.
IKEA had already closed its restaurants and cafés, but said it will now close fully in 'these extraordinary circumstances'.
"Ikea UK & Ireland today announced that, as a precautionary measure against the ongoing risk of COVID-19, it will temporarily close its stores to customers at 6pm on Friday 20 March," a statement said.
"In line with recommendations from local authorities, Ikea had already put additional precautionary measures in place, including the closure of its restaurants, cafes and bistros; enhanced cleaning routines; and the closure of its outside playground facilities.
"Customers will continue to be able to shop online at IKEA.co.uk and have products delivered directly to their homes.
"They will be able to request contact-free deliveries if they prefer.
"People are at the heart of the Ikea business and the retailer is committed to supporting its co-workers in the best possible way during this complex and fast-evolving situation."
"IKEA looks forward to welcoming customers back to its stores soon and thanks customers for their understanding during these extraordinary circumstances."
Peter Jelkeby, Ikea's chief sustainability officer, said: "These are extraordinary times, and our absolute priority is to ensure the health and safety of our customers and co-workers.
"We have listened carefully to them, to the advice of the UK and Ireland governments, and have been closely monitoring the situation as this evolves.
"This is the right decision for us to take at this point.
"We look forward to welcoming our customers back to our stores in the future.
"As a company who cares deeply about people and the planet, our thoughts are with all those affected by the virus and those working tirelessly to care for them."
Hundreds of cinemas, theatres, pubs and restaurants have closed their doors this week - with many unable to say when they will reopen to the public.
It comes after Boris Johnson issued a stark warning to the public on Tuesday, telling workers to stay at home and avoid pubs and mass gatherings.
Zara has closed almost 4,000 branches around the world due to the pandemic - while fashion chain Burberry is set to do the same.
Pubs, meanwhile, have been told they can operate as takeaway houses to keep profits moving - but many have warned the Government has just 24 hours to save them from job cuts and collapse.
Current Government advice states that people who suffer mild symptoms of coronavirus, or live with someone who does, should to stay at home and self-isolate and will not be tested.
If you live on your own, you should self-isolate for seven days, but if you live with others, you should all self-isolate for 14 days.
