Is GameStop really “essential retail”?

It is a shame to see so many businesses close down over the coronavirus situation. However, given the current circumstances, and what we know about the COVID-19 virus, it’s probably for the best. When something this big happens, I want businesses to put the health of their employees and customers. Understandably, there are still lots of businesses that stay open. There are groceries, restaurants, and businesses that are essential to the functioning of society — mean, you gotta eat, right? 

But when you think of essential businesses, chances are you’re not thinking about a video game store. More specifically GameStop. As it turns out, the retailer told its stores to stay open even in the event of a city lockdown.

“Due to the products we carry that enable and enhance our customers’ experience in working from home, we believe GameStop is classified as essential retail and therefore is able to remain open during this time,” the retailer said in a staff memo. “We have received reports of local authorities visiting stores in an attempt to enforce closure despite our classification. Store Managers are approved to provide the document linked below to law enforcement as needed.” 

RELATED – Black Widow Is Delayed Due To Coronavirus – As Expected

In short, they see their product as essential during this crisis, and as such, are forcing their employees to put themselves in danger in order to push more of it. If employees have a problem with this policy, they are encouraged to call GameStop’s corporate headquarters. I don’t know about you, but if I were an employee, I’d definitely be calling.

“Been with company almost a decade,” one employee told Kotaku. “This is indefensible.”

I have to say, this is pretty blatantly terrible. Yes, I could see the argument for providing “essentials” for their customers, but the reality is that most customers could get a lot of what they sell online through Amazon or digital stores. Given how GameStop has faced almost nothing but criticism for years and years, in addition to declining business, I can only imagine this to be a move meant to help quash fears of further drops in their numbers. But how worth it is it really?

What do you think? is this a wrong move from GameStop? Let us know your thoughts down below!

LRM Online contributor and active Army soldier Kyle Malone needs your help. CLICK HERE to lend a hand to the cause!

—–

Have you checked out LRM Online’s official podcast feed yet The LRM Online Podcast Network? This includes our flagship podcast Los Fanboys, our premiere podcast Breaking Geek Radio: The Podcast, GeekScholars Movie News, and our morning show LRMornings. Check it out by listening below. It’s also available on all your favorite podcast apps!

Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts |  Spotify  |  SoundCloud | Stitcher | Google Play

SOURCE: Kotaku