West Marine Taking Proactive Approach To COVID-19 Pandemic

ByMatt Trulio

With 243 retail outlets around the country, West Marine is the nation’s largest retailer of marine products. The company, which is headquartered in Watsonville, Calif., announced several significant changes it is making in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in a press release last Friday.

westmarine

Well-known to powerboat owners throughout the country, retailing giant West Marine has been working with the CDC to develop best practices at its locations. Photo courtesy/copyright Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.

“In many locations, West Marine stores are deemed an essential business and will remain open on a limited schedule to provide supplies to first responders, U.S. Coast Guard, FEMA and other essential marine businesses,” the release stated. (For specific store hours, consumers can check through the West Marine website.)

The company has been working closely with the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, as well as state and local health officials to develop best practices in its response to the novel coronavirus.

As part of its previously planned “Super Sale” program, West Marine is ramping up shipping efforts to “decrease traffic in stores and promote social distancing.” The company also is “implementing increased cleaning policies and making personal cleaning items available to associates in all retail stores,” according to the release.

“The company will take all appropriate precautions to manage this event and operate in accordance with CDC guidelines,” the release stated. “West Marine teams will assist with door pick-up or direct-to-home delivery, and store managers will monitor and limit store access, if necessary.”

On Friday, the West Marine shut down its Watsonville service center. The closure will last no less than two weeks, according to the release, and employees at that location will be working remotely. The company also is in the process of updating its workplace policies to enable flexible work options to all of its associates.

Related stories
Ongoing COVID-19 Related Coverage