DIY stores in South America are mostly allowed to open still

In many countries in South America, the impact of the Corona epidemic on the population and the economy is not yet as pronounced as is currently the case in Europe. For example Sodimac, the division for home improvement and building materials within the Chilean retail group Falabella, can still keep the majority of its stores open in Chile, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Uruguay; at the same time, customers are being requested to order online. In contrast, the government of Peru has stopped sales in stationary stores as well as via the Internet.
DIY stores and the building materials trade are classified as essential in most countries because they, for example, also enable construction companies to continue working and thus also maintain the infrastructure. In addition, winter is approaching in the southern hemisphere, which means that everyone should be given the opportunity to keep their houses and apartments in good repair.