Travel retailer DFS Group has closed two of its Hong Kong stores to help curb the spread of the coronavirus and protect employees and customers in the current health environment.

The T Galleria by DFS at Tsim Sha Tsui East and T Galleria Beauty by DFS Moko outlets will be closed until the end of February.

DFS, which demonstrated strong resilience last year amid a slowdown in Hong Kong tourism due to the anti-government protests, said the closures were a purely preventative step.

A statement said: “This will allow us to focus our resources and efforts on a reduced store footprint while balancing the need to continue to serve our customers. To date, there have been no cases of the coronavirus in any of our store locations and we will continue to take all necessary precautions to ensure our stores remain hygienic and safe environments for all.”

The statement added: “We look forward to serving customers at our T Galleria by DFS, Canton Road or T Galleria by DFS, Causeway Bay stores, which remain open as usual, or through our Click and Collect Service.”

MACAU STORE CLOSURES

Following the decision of the Macau SAR Government to close all Macau casinos and entertainment venues for two weeks, effective 5 February 2020, DFS has confirmed all stores in Macau will cease trading until 19 February inclusive.

“We apologise for any inconvenience to our loyal customers during the temporary closure of two of our stores. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and we look forward to reopening as soon as possible.”

As reported, other travel retailers with operations in Hong Kong have also taken preventative measures  and been in close contact with airport partners as the situation escalates. Gebr. Heinemann, for example, which runs Sweet Dreams confectionery shops at Hong Kong International Airport has been constantly exchanging information with travel risk consultants and industry associations.

At the end of last month, Li Gang, Deputy General Manager of China National Tourism Group and other officials visited China Duty Free Group’s Hong Kong downtown beauty store  to implement epidemic prevention measures.

During the inspection, which included cashier desks, counters and back-office areas, employees received reassurance on the situation and officials ensured staff retained a thorough understanding of the current operations and ‘rigorous’ emergency plans.

The store is fully equipped with prevention and control supplies, with Li Gang reiterating that the prevention of the epidemic through responsible collaboration remains the top priority for CDFG.