(Lititz, PA-LititzDailyNews.com)-Kohl’s temporarily closed their stores last night in response to the COVID-19 outbreak and intends to keep them closed for at least several days.

Many shoppers learned the news late last night on social media, where Kohl’s posted the announcement that stores will close through at least Wednesday, April 1, “to do our part in slowing the spread of COVID-19.”

Kohl’s had recently come under criticism on social media for remaining open while other major retailers, like Macy’s, closed their doors.

Kohl’s social post announcing closure of stores posted March 19, 2020.

“To demonstrate our support of the efforts underway to contain the spread of the coronavirus, we are closing all Kohl’s stores through at least April 1. We will support store associates with two calendar weeks of pay,” said Michelle Gass, Kohl’s chief executive officer.

Many of the brand’s social fans reacted positively to the news.

“THANK YOU for taking care of your employees! I love Kohls already, but will be a long time customer for sure after this!” wrote April Pullins on Facebook.

Although brick-and-mortar stores will be shuttered temporarily, the retail giant hopes to continue to retain its base of customers through digital shopping alternatives.

“We will continue to serve customers on Kohls.com and our Kohl’s App, and we look forward to reopening our stores soon to serve families across the country,” said Gass.

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Lynn Rebuck is the editor and publisher of award-winning LititzDailyNews.com, the only independent digital news source in Lititz. Lynn is an award-winning journalist who was invited to the White House and has received top recognition from the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association, Pennsylvania Women’s Press Association, National Society of Newspaper Columnists, and has been profiled in Editor & Publisher magazine for her unparalleled devotion to publishing LititzDailyNews.com to benefit the community. Support continued publication of LititzDailyNews.com with your non-tax-deductible donation of any amount through the PayPal button below.