Coronavirus Roundup: Depot's hours and 'essential' retail

The coronavirus continues to make news around the globe. Here are some of the latest stories that directly affect the hardware and building supply industry.

• On Wednesday, The Home Depot said stores will begin to close at 6 p.m. Also, the company is expanding its paid-time-off policy to address the needs of hourly associates. Read more here.

• To serve customers who are unable or uncomfortable leaving their homes, Costello's Ace Hardware will waive all local delivery fees on orders of $20 or more. Read more here.

• Lumberyards are "essential." That's the message from the Northeastern Retail Lumber Association as authorities consider social-distancing measures.  Read statement here.

Previous stories:

• Eight hardware industry leaders sign on to a letter encouraging state and local authorities to classify hardware stores as essential retailers. Read more here.


• Light construction show canceled. The coronavirus pushes JLC LIVE New England to a date in late August. Read more here.


• Lowe’s CEO Marvin Ellison delivers message to customers. A new, temporary time-off plan allows employees greater sick-time flexibility and pays them for their time to recover and return to work healthy, he said. Read it here.


• Harbor Freight’s founder weighs in on the virus. “Impacted associates will be compensated for their missed work hours,” said Eric Smidt.  Read more here.


• Poll question: Are hardware stores essential? Yes or Yes?. More here.


• The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association canceled its 2020 Spring Meeting and Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. Read more here.


• In the nation's housing marketplace, fewer consumers are searching and listings are being delayed, says the NAR. Read the article here.