By U-turn for Sports Direct after backlash
Sports Direct have now performed a U-turn on keeping its shops open during the coronavirus crisis, following a backlash from both politicians and the public over its plans.
As part of the new tighter measures, the UK government has ordered all shops selling non-essential goods to close.
Sports Direct initially said it would remain open as it was “uniquely well placed to help keep the UK as fit and healthy as possible”.
But after widespread criticism, it now says it will close “until we are given the go-ahead by the government”.
Public responses included:
“By refusing to close its shops, #SportsDirect has declared that money is more important than life.”
This morning, Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove said that he could not see “any justification” for the shop to remain open:
“The key thing we need to do is make sure people wherever possible stay at home. Yes it’s important people exercise but that should be done once a day and it’s a basic thing
People can walk, run or cycle, they should, but there is no reason for a store like Sports Direct to remain open.”
The retailer argued that it provided an essential service, and that the sports equipment it sells can be used to exercise at home at a time when gyms have been closed.
Following the backlash, it has now been announced that Sports Direct will close during the lockdown.
Bicycle shops are on the list of retailers that are allowed to stay open.
DIY and hardware stores such as B&Q are also allowed to remain open, but are putting special social distancing measures in place.
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