Gamestop sent a memo to all stores last week claiming that its chain constituted “essential retail” and that local stores should remain open even in the face of COVID-19 shutdown orders from state and local governments.
According to Kotaku, Gamestop sent a memo to its stores saying,
Due to the products we carry that enable and enhance our customers’ experience in working from home, we believe GameStop is classified as essential retail and therefore is able to remain open during this time.
. . .e have received reports of local authorities visiting stores in an attempt to enforce closure despite our classification. Store Managers are approved to provide the document linked below to law enforcement as needed.
The video game chain relented over the weekend and said it would “close customer access to U.S. storefronts and will process orders on a digital only basis, moving to curbside pick-up at stores and eCommerce delivery only” effective Sunday, March 22.