Apple Shuts 12 NYC Stores Amid Omicron Surge
Apple Inc. announced on Monday that it’s closing all 12 of its New York City retail locations—think Fifth Avenue, Grand Central, and SoHo—to in‑store shopping. The decision comes as the Omicron variant spikes across the U.S., putting the good people of Apple’s stores and customers at higher risk.
What’s the new plan?
- Pick‑up and delivery only: Online orders can still be snatched up at the stores.
- Health‑first stance: “We’ll keep monitoring and tweak our health measures and store services for safety,” the company said.
Prior steps
Earlier this month, Apple briefly shut three U.S. and Canadian locations after a spike in COVID cases among employees. They also mandated masks for everyone—customers and staff alike—at all U.S. stores.
Industry ripple effects
With Omicron gnawing at global markets, other big names are tightening rules too. A U.S. court already reinstated a nationwide Vaccine‑or‑Testing mandate that covers 80 million workers, a move that’s heading straight to the Supreme Court.
Stocks take a lift
Apple shares slid up 2.3% to $180.33 (SGD $244.30) after the announcement.
Stay tuned for more updates on Apple’s new guidelines over the coming weeks.
