Gamestop, the struggling retailer that can't seem to catch a break, appears to be playing it fast and loose with the definition of "essential retail" in an effort to thwart attempts by state and local governments to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus by shuttering non-essential businesses.
According to an internal memo sent out to store-level management, Gamestop's higher-ups believe that "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."
While misguided at best, their reason for this self-classification is due to the fact that some of their products can technically be used by folks currently working from home, such as mice, keyboards, webcams, and the like. In a statement released after reports of their contentious stance began to circulate, the company attempted to double-down on their justifications for remaining open:
While GameStop is best known as a provider of gaming and home entertainment systems, we also offer a wide array of products and devices that are important to facilitate remote work, distance learning, and virtual connectivity. As millions of Americans face unprecedented challenges adapting to virtual learning, working and interaction, there is significant need for technology solutions and we are one of many providers of these products that are remaining open at this time. Schools, businesses and families are now suddenly dependent on being able to connect through technology. While there are many businesses and organizations far more critical than ours, we believe we can have a positive impact during this very challenging time. The health and safety of our employees and customers is of utmost importance and we have and will continue to take extensive precautions consistent with CDC guidelines. We are complying with all state, county, city and local ordinances and we will continue to adjust to any future developments.
Unsurprisingly, some stores have been approached by local law enforcement and urged to comply with lockdown protocols, though the company is instructing their store managers to resist and to instead provide law enforcement with documentation clarifying Gamestop's essentialness.
"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."
Update
12:19 PM PST
According to Kotaku, Gamestop has since announced its decision to comply with California's newly imposed, state-wide lockdown by closing all locations within the state. The company has stated that these closures "will remain in effect until further notice."
