The coronavirus pandemic is impacting growth plans for chain Ulta Beauty Inc.
In a statement, Ulta said it has completed the phased reopening process to allow for in-store shopping while still offering curbside pick, online shopping with in-store pick, shopping on ulta.com and via the Ulta Beauty app.
“In navigating the fluid dynamics of COVID-19, we are keeping the safety of our guests and associates at the heart of every decision we make,” said Mary Dillon, chief executive officer. “In parallel, we are making decisions to ensure continued strength as an industry leader with an eye towards long-term growth.”
That growth will include the opening of 30 new stores in fiscal 2020, the chain said. During the same time, Ulta will close 19 stores.
“The company intends to reassign affected stores and salon associates where possible” Ulta said.
The locations set to be closed have not been announced.
New store activity was temporarily paused in the first quarter of the year due to COVID-19; openings are expected to resume in August. Ulta also has brought back roughly 50% of the employees furloughed since April.