Private department store Belk reopens where it can

Belk, a regional department store that focuses on fashion, including some private label lines, reopened doors in five states on May 1, inviting customers and associates back to work and shop.

The retailer, based in Charlotte, and with stores in 16 states in the southeast, opened stores in South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Arkansas and Oklahoma. The store is continuing to operate free curbside pickup in most stores where they must remain closed due to concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In the stores that are opening up, recommended safety precautions from the CDC and state and local health authorities will be implemented. Stores will start with limited hours, opening from noon to 6 p.m., and Belk will limit the number of people shopping in the store to ensure social distancing.

"For more than 130 years, the health and safety of our customers and associates has remained a top priority," said Lisa Harper, chief executive officer of Belk. "While the shopping experience may look a little different, our commitment to offering quality products at a value customers deserve, providing exceptional service, and helping our local communities remains true to who we are. We sincerely thank everyone who has supported us during this unprecedented time. We are especially grateful for our remarkable team of Belk associates."

Throughout May, more stores expect to open, the company said.