John Lewis to Close but Waitrose to Remain Open

John Lewis has announced it will close all 50 of its UK stores from Monday as coronavirus spreads across the country.

The retailer, which has a store on Broad Street in Reading, Berkshire, described the decision as "difficult".

It will continue to operate online, as Johnlewis.com, and Waitrose shops and waitrose.com will also remain open for business for the time-being.

Announcing the move - the first time in the 155-year history of the business that it will not open its shop doors for customers - chairman Sharon White said: "The welfare of our customers, communities and partners is always our absolute priority.