A dealership in California has closed its doors for two weeks out of precaution amid the spread of the novel coronavirus, and stores in other states may be forced to follow suit as municipalities and governors across the U.S. take broader action.
Capistrano Toyota, in San Juan Capistrano, says on its website and in a recorded phone message that it has closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which over the past week in the U.S. and abroad has caused unprecedented event cancellations, school closures and business disruptions.
“We care about the health and safety of our employees and customers!” the dealership says on its website. “Due to the COVID-19 virus, Capistrano Toyota will be closed for two weeks for the safety and protection for all. God bless and stay safe.”
Several municipalities and states have begun to order shutdowns of restaurants, bars, casinos and other nonessential businesses as a way to try to control the spread of the virus.
The city of Philadelphia, for example, is ordering that only essential businesses such as grocery stores and pharmacies remain open in the city beginning at 5 p.m. Monday through at least March 27. A news release from the city does not list automobile dealerships as essential, though it was not immediately clear whether they would be forced to close.
Automotive News could not immediately reach representatives from the Pennsylvania Automotive Association or the Auto Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia for comment.
