Tesco Lotus has announced plans to close all 1,900 of its stores in Thailand on Oct. 26, the date scheduled for the cremation of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which is expected to be a day marked by a national outpouring of grief.
According a statement from CEO Christie John, Tesco will close its business from 2pm onwards that day so that its 63,000 employees can attend or watch the broadcast of the late king’s cremation.
Oct. 26 has been declared a public holiday in Thailand. An estimated 250,000 people will attend the cremation ceremony at the Grand Palace.
While many won’t be able to attend in person, it’s expected that communities across the country will gather to watch the broadcast and mourn together.
Coconuts has compiled information regarding etiquette, attire and expected closures related to the mourning period, and will update that list as new information becomes available.
