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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Lisa Hodge

Next abruptly shuts down its online operation amid backlash from staff

Next has shut down its online operations after a backlash from staff over coronavirus fears.

Staff of the High Street fashion giant were said to be upset that they were having to enter warehouses and shops to collect parcels for delivery.

The high street store, which is hugely popular with parents due to its a children's clothing department, abruptly shut down its online business on Thursday night.

Next's message on its website (Next)

The retailer had initially classed its online operations as "essential", but then made the U-turn.

The company said the move came after listening "very carefully" to concerns from staff amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The company said: “It is clear that many increasingly feel they should be at home in the current climate.

“Next has therefore taken the difficult decision to temporarily close its Online, Warehousing and Distribution Operations from this evening, Thursday 26 March 2020.

“Next will not be taking any more Online orders after this time until further notice.”

The move came after reports staff across the retail sector were feeling 'pressured' into continuing to go into work or 'risk losing their jobs'.

Some companies, including McDonald’s and Greggs, have already closed all operations, despite being able to continue offering takeaways under current measures.

Next announced to customers on Monday it would be closing every one of its 700 UK stores from 6pm that day due to the pandemic.

Posting on the company's Twitter page, a spokesman said: 'We have made the decision to close our stores from today, Monday 23rd March at 6pm, until further notice.

'We'd like to take the opportunity to thank all of our staff who continue to be incredibly supportive of Next and we would also like to let customers know that we do appreciate their loyal support.'

But just a few days later the company has seemingly succumbed to public and political pressure and closed down the online arm of the business too.

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