The Entertainer to close at 5pm today to keep staff safe during coronavirus lock down
THE Entertainer is closing all of its 172 shops at 5pm today because of the coronavirus outbreak.
It said the closure was temporary and customers will still be able to order via its online shop.
⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
The toy shop said in a statement to customers it had tried to keep its 172 branches open as long as possible.
All of its physical shops are closing today (23 March) at 5pm.
But it is keeping its website open for online orders.
In a statement it said: "Thank you for your continued loyalty and support as we navigate our way through the unchartered waters of the Covid-19 pandemic.
"We have tried to keep our stores open for you as long as possible as the need to help keep families upbeat and entertained during such a challenging time has been more important than ever.
"We have taken this decision with a very heavy heart but the safety and wellbeing of our employees and customers is our priority."
Which brands are shutting up shop
HERE is the list of all the retailers that have said they are closing their doors thanks to coronavirus
- Boden - closing all stores
- Burton - closing all stores
- Calvin Klein - closing all stores
- Clarks - closing all stores
- Costa - closing all stores but will try to keep shops in hospitals open
- Dorothy Perkins - closing all stores
- Evans - closing all stores
- Fenwick - closing all stores
- H&M - closing all stores
- HMV - closing all stores
- IKEA - closing all stores
- John Lewis - closing all stores
- McDonald's - closing all stores
- Miss Selfridge - closing all stores
- Nando's - closing all stores
- Oxfam - closing all stores
- Patisserie Valerie - closing all stores
- Starbucks - closing all stores
- Sweaty Betty - closing all stores
- Timpson - closing all stores
- TK Maxx - closing all stores
- Topshop - closing all stores
- Wallis - closing all stores
The Sun has asked the company how returns will work and if staff will continue to be paid while the branches are shut. We will update this article once it has confirmed these details.
The shop has been running promotions recently on lots of its products.
This includes 50 per cent off a range of items including 'Boredom Busters' to keep children entertained when they are stuck at home.
It also said the website and social channels for the shop will provide a hub of resources for parents who are looking to keep their kids entertained at home including downloadable activity sheets and garden activities.
A number of businesses have now closed because of the pandemic outbreak.
Debenhams is to shut all of its shops at 4pm today but online sales will continue.
John Lewis announced last week all of its 50 shops would be shut after Monday 23 for the first time in the brand's history.
Ikea followed suit and closed all of its 22 UK but customers can still shop online.
CORONAVIRUS CRISIS - BE IN THE KNOW
Get the latest coronavirus news, facts and figures from around the world - plus essential advice for you and your family.
To receive our Covid-19 newsletter in your inbox every tea time, .
To follow us on Facebook, simply .
Last Friday cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants were told to close by the end of the day by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Several big chains have now announced temporary closures including Costa, Nandos, and McDonald's.
A price war at the petrol pump began today with Morrisons and Asda cutting prices by 12p a litre.