Ulta Beauty provides COVID-19-related update on business

US beauty retailer Ulta Beauty has provided updates to its operations in response to the increasing COVID-19 pandemic.

As COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the US, Ulta Beauty, as a precautionary measure, will temporarily close all of its stores effective from 19 March until at least 31 March.

Most stores will continue to be outlets for buy online and pick up facility in store will be available as allowed by local and state regulations.

Customers can continue to shop through the Ulta Beauty app or visit ulta.com.

Given the fast-moving nature of this pandemic and the uncertainty of impacts on costs and revenue, the firm is withdrawing guidance previously issued for fiscal 2020.

Currently, the firm is not providing an updated outlook at this time.

Ulta Beauty CEO Mary Dillon said: “We understand the direct impact this will have on our associates and guests. But during these critical times, we believe it is absolutely necessary to prioritize their safety and that of the broader communities we serve.

“At Ulta Beauty, our associates are at the heart of our company. As such, we will continue to pay our store and salon associates and provide benefits for those who are currently enrolled during this period.”

Dillon continued: “As we track this situation closely, I want to make sure that our guests and associates know there is nothing more important than our collective health and safety. We look forward to the time when we can re-open our stores, bring our associates back together, and invite guests back into Ulta Beauty.”