A Handelsblatt article dated 31 March 2020 examines the retail sector’s dramatic situation in Germany at the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Despite reduced-hours schemes and government support, many retailers face an existential threat. Closed shops, absent customers and an uncertain future have caused sales to collapse, with some companies reporting declines of up to 50%.

The crisis is hitting brick-and-mortar retailers especially hard, as they were already contending with growing online sales. Experts warn that many shops may not survive the pandemic, potentially leaving city centres deserted.

The article also discusses retailers’ associations’ calls for further government measures. In addition to public aid, it considers long-term strategies to realign the retail sector, cushion the crisis’s economic impact and stabilise brick-and-mortar businesses.