Apple Inc. announced on Monday the temporary closure of 12 of its retail stores in New York City due to the surge in Covid-19 cases, primarily driven by the Omicron variant. The affected stores include popular locations such as Fifth Avenue, Grand Central, and SoHo.

While the physical stores will be closed, customers will still have the option to pick up online orders at these locations, according to an Apple spokesperson. This move comes after the company previously closed three stores in the United States and Canada earlier this month due to increased Covid-19 cases and potential exposure among employees.

Apple has also implemented a mask mandate for all customers and employees at its retail stores across the United States as a precautionary measure. The Omicron variant has raised concerns globally, leading to stricter protocols by major companies worldwide.

Additionally, a US appeals court recently reinstated a nationwide vaccine-or-testing Covid-19 mandate for large businesses, affecting approximately 80 million American workers. Opponents of the mandate have sought intervention from the Supreme Court.

The temporary closure of Apple’s retail stores in New York City is a proactive measure to ensure the safety of customers and employees amid the ongoing surge in Covid-19 cases. By implementing these measures, Apple aims to contribute to the containment of the virus while continuing to provide essential services to its customers.