A temporary pause in operations to prioritize employee safety during the pandemic

  • The Perfume Shop has shut down its online operations due to the coronavirus outbreak.
  • Over 1,800 jobs are affected by this temporary closure.
  • The company had previously closed all 231 physical stores.
  • Employees will receive support from parent company AS Watson’s financial package.
  • The decision was made to prioritize the health and safety of employees.

The Perfume Shop, a well-known fragrance retailer, has announced the suspension of its online operations in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. This decision affects approximately 1,875 employees, as the company had already closed its 231 physical stores in compliance with government regulations that mandate the closure of non-essential businesses. The Perfume Shop stated that the temporary halt in online sales is necessary to ensure the safety of its warehouse team, allowing them to adhere to government advice to stay at home. Gill Smith, the Managing Director, emphasized the importance of putting employees and their families first during these challenging times. The company reassured its staff that they would receive support through a financial package from its parent company, AS Watson. Despite the difficulties, The Perfume Shop remains optimistic and committed to supporting its employees, loyal customers, and the community as they collectively navigate the challenges posed by Covid-19.

Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information about The Perfume Shop’s decision to close its online operations due to the coronavirus outbreak and the impact on employees. It also includes a statement from the company’s MD, Gill Smith, explaining their reasoning behind the decision.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about The Perfume Shop’s decision to close its online operations due to the coronavirus outbreak and its impact on employees, but it lacks in-depth analysis or exploration of long-term trends or consequences. It also does not offer actionable insights or new knowledge.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The closure of The Perfume Shop’s online operations affects its employees and parent company AS Watson.
Financial Rating Justification: This article is financially relevant as it discusses the impact of the coronavirus outbreak on a retailer’s business decisions, specifically the closure of its online operations and the potential financial implications for both the company and its employees.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: Minor
Extreme Rating Justification: The article discusses the closure of an online retailer’s operations due to the COVID-19 outbreak, affecting jobs and temporarily suspending website orders. The impact is considered minor as it does not involve significant deaths, injuries or damage to infrastructure.

Reported publicly: www.retailsector.co.uk