High-end department store chain Harvey Nichols has become the latest retailer to announce closures as a result of the coronavirus crisis.
The company has said it is shutting all of its stores in the UK and Ireland from 6pm tonight.
The company, known for its luxury products and expensive fashion lines, runs stores in Birmingham, Bristol, Dublin, Edinburgh, Leeds, Liverpool, London and Manchester.
The move echoes announcements made by other retailers including Selfridges and Ikea.
Chief operating office Manju Malhotra said: "The health and wellbeing of our customers, employees and suppliers are of paramount importance to us.
"In light of UK government guidance regarding covid-19, we have made the decision to temporarily close our UK and Ireland stores and restaurants at 6pm on Thursday March 19.
"All in-store events, appointments and services have also been cancelled until further notice.
"Our online shopping service is still operating as normal and we continue to deliver to our customers in the UK and internationally.
"We thank you for your understanding and your custom and hope that you and your family stay safe in this difficult time.
"We look forward to welcoming you back to Harvey Nichols as soon as it becomes safe to do so."
The company is not accepting returns in store and suspended all of its collect-in-store orders.
