The Perfume Shop shuts online operations, affecting over 1,800 jobs

Fragrance retailer The Perfume Shop has announced the closure of its online operations amid the coronavirus outbreak, affecting over 1,800 jobs.

The company, which had closed its 231 stores late last month following government guidelines that all shops would have to close, except those selling essential items, said it has “temporarily ceased” online operations.

As many as 1,875 employees will be affected by the temporary closure, but will be supported by its parent company AS Watson’s workforce financial package during the Covid-19 virus outbreak.

The company said: “For 25 years our talented and passionate colleagues have been at our heart and have always come first and that is why we have taken the decision to temporarily suspend fulfilment of website orders so our warehouse team can follow government advice to stay at home.”

Gill Smith, MD of The Perfume Shop, said: “Like everyone we are following government guidelines closely and feel we need to put our colleagues, and their families, first and this means pausing delivery of online orders for the moment. 

“In these uncertain times we remain positive and stand beside our people, loyal customers and community as we all work together to fight the spread of Covid-19.”