Simon Property Group announced Thursday that it will close all of its retail properties, including malls, premium outlets and mills in the U.S. to address the spread of COVID-19.

This measure took effect at 7 pm local time Thursday, March 19 and will end on March 29.

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

Photo courtesy Simon Property Group