Coronavirus Roundup: Salaries, Wages and Distancing

The coronavirus outbreak commands headlines throughout the world. Here are some of the latest from the hardware and building supply sector:

• The store is open, but the aisles are closed. At K&B True Value in Annapolis, Md., there's an effort to find a balance between safety and sales. Read more here.

• Tractor Supply Company will give appreciation bonuses to employees who have worked during the coronavirus crisis. Read more here.

• In light of the crisis, the CEO of BlueLinx cuts his salary to $1 per month. Read more here.

• Lowe's reported that it is increasing its commitment to associates and communities by another $80 million, bringing its total commitment to $100 million. Read more here.

More stories:

• Coronavirus updates and safety tips from California. Read more.


• The number of states that have deemed lumber and building material businesses as “essential” is growing. Read more.


• Harbor Freight said it will donate its entire supply of personal protective equipment items to hospitals. Read more.


• Survey results: Dealers share COVID-19 experiences. Read more.


• Eight hardware industry leaders sign on to a letter encouraging state and local authorities to classify hardware stores as essential retailers. Read more here.


• Poll question: Are hardware stores essential? Yes or Yes?. More here.