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GC's Kansas City distribution center is closed for the time being.

Operations At Guitar Center
Distribution Center Suspended

Facility shuttered under COVID-19 statute closing "nonessential businesses."

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KANSAS CITY HEALTH OFFICIALS have ordered Guitar Center to suspend operations at its 700,000-square-foot distribution center, under a statute that permits only “essential” businesses to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic. The operation, which employs 300, fulfills orders for all of Guitar Center’s online platforms, including Musician’s Friend, GuitarCenter.com, and Woodwind&Brasswind.com.

Guitar Center management had previously argued that automated systems in the facility made it possible for employees to maintain the 6-foot social distancing recommended by health officials. They also said that the facility maintained a rigorous cleaning regime. Local officials were not persuaded.

Separately, several prominent manufacturers have reported that Guitar Center is suspending payments to vendors to conserve cash for the duration of the shutdown.