GameStop Will Require Face Masks In All US Stores

Update: GameStop employees will not be allowed to enforce the mask policy, according to Vice Games. In an internal memo employees were told, "Do NOT refuse service to a customer that refuses to wear a mask/face covering. Do not ask a customer to leave the store if they are not wearing a mask/face covering."

When dealing with a customer without a mask, employees are to assist them and complete their transaction as quickly as possible. The memo states that employees can inform the customer of the mask policy and even offer a complimentary mask, but ultimately they cannot refuse service.

Original story: GameStop will require all customers to wear face masks in US stores effective July 27, the company announced. This announcement comes shortly after other retailers, like Walmart, have started requiring masks in stores.

"We believe this is the right thing to do to ensure the health, safety and well-being of our associates and customers from the growing spread of COVID-19," said George Sherman, chief executive officer for GameStop. "Providing a safe environment in our stores for all customers and store associates continues to be our top priority and wearing a face covering is a simple step every one of us can take to ensure the safety of others in our stores."

GameStop also offers a pick-up in store option when purchasing online and offers a contactless option for picking up.

When shutdowns began occurring in the US at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, GameStop attempted to argue that its stores were "essential business" and even defied state closure orders before eventually closing their retail stores. The company also announced the closure of over 300 stores during 2020 in March. US businesses have started reopening in recent weeks as the number of COVID-19 cases have spiked across the country.