DETROIT – All Art Van employees were laid off Friday after the coronavirus forced the company to close its stores, ending sales. A company spokesperson said Art Van couldn’t afford to keep employees after sales were ended. Art Van closes storesArt Van Furniture announced Thursday that it was suspended sales in all stores due to the coronavirus outbreak. Art Van officials said they hoped those arrangements would allow customers to complete pending pick-ups while protecting employees and residents. Art Van officially filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy March 8.