As the lockdowns strengthen amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, several huge brands have had to close their doors and lay off thousands of workers.

Iconic Aussie brand Cotton On has made the decision to close its doors nationwide.

“From 5pm Sunday 29 March, all our AUS stores will be temporarily closed,” the brand notified customers via social media.

“We want to say a huge thank you to our retail teams who have continued to amaze us with their hard work during this tough time. And to our customers, thank you for your support.”

The Cotton On Group’s seven brands (including Typo, Rubi, Cotton On Body, Factorie, Cotton On Kids and Supre) have more than 670 stores scattered throughout Australia – all of which will shut their doors by Sunday night.

The Cotton On Group – Australia’s largest global retailer, known for its fashion clothing and stationery brands – employs 22,000 workers globally.

Australian employees were advised last week that the brand had partnered with Aldi and Woolworths in an effort to redeploy staff.

Customers will still be able to shop all brands 24/7 online.

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Employees were notified via email that the Cotton On Group are committed to supporting staff during this difficult time.

“We’ve reached out to the retail community, and specifically to those retailers in the essential goods sector who are looking for support in their store and distribution networks,” the company told employees.

“We have partnered with Aldi and Woolworths who we know will be lucky to have you because of your great skills and experience. There is an application process set-up for COG team members if you are interested and would like to apply for a role.

Staff members who were successful in securing alternate employment were assured that their staff discount would remain active for a further 6 months.

“When we have the opportunity we’d love to have you back in our stores,” the statement read.

It’s the latest retailer to feel the pinch as a result of the virus.

Dozens of big name stores have temporarily shut down as the coronavirus and new social distancing measures take a toll on the retail industry.

Today, retail giant Myer announced it will also close doors around the country and stand down 10,000 staff without pay from Sunday afternoon. The iconic company says the measures will last at least four weeks, until April 27.

Outdoor chain Kathmandu became another major retail name to shut its doors in response to the sharp decline of business.

Retail Food Group — the owners of popular chains Gloria Jean’s Coffees, Brumby’s Bakeries, Donut King, and Michel’s Patisserie — said it will stand down or cut the hours of its workforce.

From Sunday, furniture retailer Adairs will temporarily close its 160 Australian stores and stand down its retail and customer support staff.

You can see the full list of retail companies impacted by coronavirus here.