Apple has temporarily closed all of its United Kingdom retail stores following the British government’s announcement of a fresh national lockdown designed to curb a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases.

The closures, which took effect in early January, affect all 38 Apple Store locations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, including outlets that had previously been operating limited services such as in-store pickup and express appointments.

The decision aligns with government mandates that non-essential retail establishments must cease in-person operations under the lockdown measures introduced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and devolved leaders as part of efforts to control the spread of a more infectious coronavirus variant.

Under the new restrictions, residents are instructed to stay at home except for essential travel, and stringent limits have been placed on public movement and retail activity to relieve pressure on the National Health Service and reduce hospitalisations.

Apple has advised customers to use its online store and contact-free delivery options while its physical locations remain closed.

The company’s action reflects compliance with national public health directives and mirrors similar temporary retail closures seen during earlier phases of the pandemic.

Although the specific timeline for reopening will depend on public health conditions and government guidance, the closures are expected to remain in place for the duration of the lockdown period announced by authorities.

Apple’s UK retail workforce will continue to support digital service and fulfilment operations remotely during the store shutdowns.