Macy’s plans to reopen 68 stores in US on Monday

Macy’s is planning to reopen 68 stores in the U.S. on Monday as the beginning of its reopening process, the company announced Thursday. 

The largest department store chain in the country aims to have all of its about 775 stores open again in six weeks if the coronavirus infections decline. After Monday, 50 other stores will reopen in the next phase on May 11, Reuters reported. 

But the stores will adjust for a post-coronavirus world. The number of fitting rooms available will decrease and be sanitized frequently. The department stores’ reopening reflects other business plans that are attempting to restart slowly and with restrictions. 

The stores that will reopen must be in areas where restrictions have been loosened, and management has to implement health and safety minimum standards and minimum staffing.

The health restrictions will involve enforcing six feet of social distancing, and employees will receive wellness checks, protective wear and safety equipment. 

Bra-fitting, ear piercings and alteration services have been suspended. Customers cannot try on dress shirts, and those trying on jewelry and watches must use hand sanitizer beforehand. The beauty department will now offer “No Touch” consultations and suspend spa-like services.  

The reopening of the stores was first reported by The Wall Street Journal. 

Macy’s shares were down about 3.5 percent on Thursday morning.

Earlier this month, Macy’s hired investment bank Lazard Ltd to help manage its finances after shutting down its stores due to the coronavirus, people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The country’s largest mall owner planned to reopen 49 locations starting on Friday.