Target reduces store hours to restock, clean amid virus outbreak

(Reuters) – Target Corp said on Tuesday it would reduce store hours for cleaning and restocking, as more consumers shop at its outlets for essentials amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The retailer’s stores, some of which are open up to 11 p.m. or midnight, will now close at 9 p.m. The company said it would also close cafes and eateries in its stores.

Target said it would add payroll hours to staff on cleaning routines, which includes sanitizing checklanes and touchscreens every 30 minutes.

Consumers have been flocking to stores in the past few weeks to load up on canned food, disinfectants, toilet paper and other essentials as the coronavirus has led to the closure of several restaurants and other businesses.

Walmart Inc said last week that some of its 24-hour U.S. stores are now open only between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.

(Reporting by Nivedita Balu in Bengaluru; Editing by Ramakrishnan M.)