Largest mall group announces closure of all properties due to coronavirus

Simon Property Group, the largest mall group, will be closing its properties through the end of the month amid the coronavirus outbreak. 

The closures of Simon malls and outlets will begin at 7 p.m. local time Wednesday, Simon Property Group announced Wednesday. 

“The health and safety of our shoppers, retailers and employees is of paramount importance and we are taking this step to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our communities,” David Simon, Simon’s chairman, CEO and president, said in the announcement. 

The announcement from Simon follows numerous retail stores announcing store closures across the country as the pandemic continues. 

States and cities have also announced closures of bars, restaurants and entertainment venues.