Under Armour announces North American store reopenings

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
May 29, 2020

Baltimore, Maryland-based athletic retailer Under Armour has launched a phased reopening for its North American stores, following temporary Covid-19 closings. 

On Thursday, the company said it reopened its first U.S. stores on May 15, and opened additional stores last week. The company plans to reopen nearly 50% of its North American stores by Friday. 

In order to create a safe environment, the company has implemented several new health and safety rules. In a press release, Under Armour said it will train all employees on new safety policies; reduce store hours to allow for new cleaning practices; limit store occupancy; and require both employees and customers to wear masks in-store. 

The company will also add hand sanitizing stations throughout stores, hold returned products for 72 hours before returning them to the floor, temporarily close fitting rooms, sanitize payment areas between each use and enforce social distancing in-store.

"We are excited to begin reopening our doors in North America," said Under Armour president and CEO, Patrik Frisk.

"Fitness and staying healthy are top of mind for our customers and we are committed to serving them safely, while ensuring our teammates' wellbeing remains our top priority."

The company said it will continue to reopen more North American stores based on government and public health guidance, and will continue to update safety protocols as needed. 

Reopening decisions and protocols for stores located outside of North America will be made based on local guidance and in consultation with government and public health officials in those markets, the company said. 

Earlier this month, Under Armour ​forecast a 50% to 60% drop in second-quarter revenue as most of its stores remained closed in response to the pandemic, causing shares to drop about 11%.