The opening and closing hours of shopping malls across Turkey have changed. Following a recent decision, nationwide shopping centers have adjusted their operating times due to the coronavirus. In line with protective measures, the Association of Shopping Centers and Investors’ (AYD) chairman, Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Altaş, stated that after consultations with mall tenants a recommendation was made to adopt flexible working hours between 12:00 (noon) and 20:00 (8:00 PM). A workshop was held with high participation to coordinate measures against the coronavirus, and extensive precautions are being implemented.
Malls Will Operate Between 12:00 Noon and 20:00 (8:00 PM)
The recommendation for malls to operate from 12:00 noon to 20:00 was the result of discussions led by Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Altaş. He emphasized that everyone is aware of the challenging period our country and the world are facing, and that daily life must continue while prioritizing public health. The association supports government authorities’ warnings and measures aimed at preventing the spread of the virus, and is mobilizing resources so that shopping centers remain safe environments during this time. Public health is placed above all else in the decisions made by malls.
After talking with tenants, the association recommended adopting flexible operating hours from 12:00 to 20:00. To avoid negative impacts on employment, they suggested that staff should use annual leave where appropriate. Additionally, mall teams should be divided into separate groups that do not overlap, reducing contact between employees while ensuring services remain hygienic and uninterrupted.
Prof. Dr. Altaş noted that malls are taking wide-ranging steps, from extensive disinfection routines to providing masks for staff. Informational videos aimed at educating the public will be displayed on screens inside malls and shared through all available channels to reach the community. Beyond the direct precautions, the association urges everyone to remain calm but vigilant during this period. They recognize that measures such as school closures can create concern, and therefore recommend that, for the duration of the recommended measures, indoor play areas and event spaces within shopping centers remain closed to limit unnecessary contact and reduce risk.