Food Trade News

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Connecticut Food Association community news page.

Detailed below is a message the Connecticut Food Association sent earlier this week to our Governor, State Health Department, every elected official and all state media outlets including Spanish television stations.  It was authored to give them a sense of the immense scope of change happening at food retail. The response has been well received and has helped give our states 3.6mm residents a better understating of how food retailers are working to keep people safe.  As importantly, it stress’s to legislators how important it is that they communicate social distancing messages to all of their constituents in the 169 towns and cities in Connecticut.  It has also given emergency management officials the information they needed to make better policy decisions during the COVID-19 crisis.

Call to action:

The coronavirus has upended the lives of millions of state residents, and every food retailer in Connecticut is taking the necessary steps to keep its associates and customers safe in the wake of unprecedented social upheaval.  At the same time, we are balancing an unimagined demand for food supplies driven by public fear, media coverage, and the closure of our states entire food service sector.

As an industry, food retailers have been adjusting quickly to the new normal of intermittent out-of-stocks and sporadic customer surges.  Despite enormous logistical challenges, our state’s grocery community has worked around the clock to supply food to Connecticut families while at the same time implementing new policies of social distancing and limiting customer density in stores.

We are taking essential steps in working to flatten the COVID-19 curve in each of the communities we serve. These steps start at our front doors and end as our customers are checking out. We have designed new ways to practice social distancing while still providing a safe, sanitary place to shop. Below is a sampling of the precautions Connecticut food retailers have put in place:

• Managers along with all store associates are being trained on social distancing techniques & general health best practices.  These communications have become are part of daily management routines. Stores are adhering to CDC recommended guidelines.

• Golden hours for customers 60+ every day. Many retailers are offering special hours for older customers or customers with weakened immune systems one or two days per week. Two of our states largest retailers are making this option available seven days a week to help reduce crowds and help our most vulnerable customers practice social distancing while shopping.
• Online fulfillment: retailers have a substantial infrastructure in place for order and delivery of groceries.  We are increasing those capabilities across the state’s entire supply chain, and this is helping reduce the number of customers coming into stores.
• Closed all in-store cafes and seating areas. These areas are closed in order to prevent customers from gathering and sitting closely to one another.
• Placing store signage that requests single-family shopping trips during peak hours.
• Many stores are installing clear plastic guards at registers. Because the register area doesn’t allow for the cashier and customer to maintain a distance of 6 feet apart per CDC guidelines, plexiglass guards are being added for additional protection in one of the most vulnerable areas of the store.
• Whenever possible, we are opening only every other register lane to create further distancing between customers at checkout instead of opening lanes right next to each other.
• Beginning this week, we’ll have signage in stores that reminds customers to stand at least 6 feet apart from others, plus other guidelines from the CDC.  Those signs will be placed at every register, on front doors, and in many places throughout the store, including the deli and pharmacy.

• Beginning this week, many retailers will have tape on the floors at each register so customers understand the 6-foot distance they should keep from others. The length of a standard shopping cart creates natural spacing for “Social Distancing”

• Require customers who use reusable bags to bag their own groceries.  Remind customers to wash reusable bags and totes after each use and to store bags and totes in a clean, cool and dry location.

• Store associates are wiping down and disinfecting shopping cart handles as often as needed throughout the day.

• Websites, newsletters, blogs and social media engagement by retailers to communicate safety measures

All of this said, it is with great respect and cooperation that our industry is reaching out to our legislative partners for help and leadership.  The public—your constituency—depends on great leadership in stable times as well as in unprecedented times such as these. Clear direction from our elected officials is paramount in order to keep Connecticut citizens informed.

We are respectively pleading for your leadership in providing clear, concise, educational public service messaging on the importance and obligation of all individuals across the state to take action now with social distancing.  Messages should facilitate understanding and a sense of urgency that is consistent with current guidance from CDC, WHO, and other respected regulatory resources across the nation.

As you know, our industry, as well as many others across the nation, is in the midst of turbulence, the likes of which we have never seen at any other time in my memory.  Historically, in times of great national crisis—and even at the state level—one constant has prevailed: the elevation of sound, solid leadership and voice of reason.

As we continue to strive to keep our doors open for our guests, the lines of communication from our public servant leadership to the public is critical.  We are all in this together!

Respectfully,

Wayne Pesce

President

Connecticut Food Association

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information and resources, please visit the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) coronavirus update page.

March 20

Now hiring! Grocers Looking For Workers To Meet Demand Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

If you need a job or to supplement your income, there are plenty of opportunities right now in the food industry.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused an unprecedented demand for food and supplies and grocery stores are hiring to meet that demand.

Below are links to opportunities at various member companies:

ACME

Aldi

Boyer’s Food Markets

C&S Wholesale Grocers

Core-Mark International

The GIANT Company

Giant Eagle

McLane

Save-a-lot

ShopRite

UNFI

Wegmans

Weis Markets

March 19

Gov. Wolf Closes All Non-Life-Sustaining Businesses To Slow COVID-19 Spread

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf has ordered that all non-life-sustaining businesses in the Commonwealth to close physical locations as of 8 p.m. today to slow the spread of (Coronavirus) COVID-19.

Enforcement actions against businesses that do not close physical locations will begin at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, March 21.

Grocery stores and gas stations/convenience stores can remain open.

COVID-19: Low Interest Loans/ SBA For Small Businesses and Non-Profits

Governor Tom Wolf today announced the availability of low-interest loans for small businesses and eligible non-profits in all 67 counties in Pennsylvania through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
 
“We are incredibly grateful that the SBA recognized the urgency of this situation and granted our request so quickly,” said Gov. Wolf. “I encourage our businesses and non-profits to look at the SBA resources available to them and take advantage of this opportunity for financial assistance during this time of uncertainty.

“Thank you also to members of our congressional delegation, including Representatives Glenn Thompson, Chrissy Houlahan, and John Joyce for their assistance in expediting our request.”

SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance and can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact.

The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses without credit available elsewhere; businesses with credit available elsewhere are not eligible. The interest rate for non-profits is 2.75%.
SBA offers loans with long-term repayments in order to keep payments affordable, up to a maximum of 30 years. Terms are determined on a case-by-case basis, based upon each borrower’s ability to repay.

Businesses may obtain information and loan applications by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the hearing impaired), or by e-mailing [email protected].

Loan applications can also be downloaded at www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Completed applications should be returned to the local DLOC or mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

The deadline to return economic injury disaster loan applications is Dec. 21, 2020.

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) website.

May 18

Governor Murphy Unveils Multi-Stage Approach to Execute a Responsible and Strategic Restart of New Jersey’s Economy

TRENTON – As part of his vision, “The Road Back: Restoring Economic Health Through Public Health,” Governor Phil Murphy today unveiled a multi-stage approach to execute a responsible and strategic economic restart to put New Jersey on the road back to recovery from COVID-19. The multi-stage blueprint, guided by the Governor’s Restart and Recovery Commission and complementary Advisory Councils, plans for a methodical and strategic reopening of businesses and activities based on level of disease transmission risk and essential classification.

“Through our combined efforts, we have flattened the curve of COVID-19 cases, and we are well-positioned to continue our restart and recovery process,” said Governor Murphy. “Our multi-stage approach uses science, data, and facts to determine which businesses and activities can reopen according to their risk level and challenges they face to safeguard public health. Additionally, we will be guided by our ability to protect against a new COVID-19 outbreak with expanded testing and contact tracing, and clear social distancing safeguards in place. We are currently in Stage 1, and we will aim to move through each stage quickly, but also judiciously, with the public health of our communities and all New Jerseyans in mind. We are also counting on all New Jerseyans to continue keeping themselves and their neighbors safe by wearing face coverings, washing hands frequently, and limiting gatherings.”

Governor Murphy’s approach includes the following stages:

MAXIMUM RESTRICTIONS
Maximum restrictions with most individuals staying at home and activity limited to essential tasks.

Permitted activities and businesses include:

• Emergency health care
• Essential construction
• Manufacturing
• Essential retail, including grocery stores and pharmacies

STAGE 1
Restrictions relaxed on low-risk activities if appropriately safeguarded. New Jersey is currently in this stage.

Phased-in businesses may include:

• Non-essential, but easiest to safeguard, work activities at physical locations if they meet safeguarding and modification guidelines. For example, non-essential construction with protections.
• Some non-essential retail may open with significant modifications. For example, curbside pickup.
• All workers who can work from home continue to work from home even if their industry is reopening. For example, an office manager for a construction company.

Phased-in activities include State and county parks, non-essential construction, curbside retail, drive-in activities, beaches, and elective surgeries.

STAGE 2
Restrictions are relaxed on additional activities that can be easily safeguarded.

Phased-in businesses may include:

• More work activities are allowed at physical locations only if they adhere to safeguarding and modification guidelines. For example, work activities to be phased-in over the course of Stage 2 may include expanded retail, safeguarded restaurants with outdoor seating, limited personal care, and possibly indoor dining, museums, and libraries, all with significantly reduced capacity.
• All workers who can work from home continue to work from home. For example, a buying manager for restaurants.
• Some personal care services may be provided on a limited basis.

STAGE 3
Restrictions are relaxed on most activities with significant safeguarding.

Phased-in businesses include:

• More work activities, including in-person meetings, are allowed at physical locations only if they can adhere to safeguarding guidelines and modifications. For example, work activities to be phased-in over the course of Stage 3 may include expanded dining, critical in-office work, limited entertainment, expanded personal care, and bars with limited capacity.
• All workers who can work from home continue to work from home. For example, accounting office workers.
• Personal care services may be provided on a more extended basis.

Precautions that apply across all stages include:

• Work that can be done from home should continue to be done from home.
• Clinically high-risk individuals who can stay at home should continue to do so.
• All residents and businesses should follow state and federal safeguarding guidelines:

• • Wash hands
  • Wear masks in public
  • Respect social distancing
  • Minimize gatherings
  • Disinfect workplace and businesses
  • Minimize gatherings
  • No mass gatherings

New Jersey will move toward subsequent stages based on data that demonstrates improvements in public health and the capacity to safeguard the public, including:

• Sustained improvements in public health indicators, including new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, individuals in intensive care, and ventilator use.
• Substantial increase in testing and contact tracing capacity.
• Sufficient resilience in New Jersey’s health care system to include adequate bed capacity, ventilators, personal protective equipment, and workforce.
• Widespread safeguarding of workplaces.
• Widespread safeguarding and capacity of child care, schools, and transit.
• Continued public compliance.

If public health indicators, safeguarding, or compliance worsen on a sustained basis, New Jersey will be prepared to move back to more restrictive stages as well.

For a one-page summary of Governor Murphy’s multi-stage approach to restart New Jersey’s economy, click here.

April 9

To: NJFC Members

From: Linda Doherty, President

Re: Executive Orders Regarding Essential Retail Establishments, Manufacturing and         Construction Projects

Governor Murphy issued the attached Executive Order 122 last night, which directs that essential retail businesses such as food retailers must adopt the following policies:

• Limit occupancy at 50 percent of the stated maximum store capacity, if applicable, at one time.
• Establish hours of operation, wherever possible, that permit access solely to high-risk individuals, as defined by the CDC.
• Install a physical barrier, such as a shield guard, between customers and cashiers/baggers wherever feasible or otherwise ensure six feet of distance between those individuals, except at the moment of payment and/or exchange of goods.
• Require infection control practices, such as regular hand washing, coughing and sneezing etiquette, and proper tissue usage and disposal.
• Provide employees break time for repeated handwashing throughout the workday.
• Arrange for contactless pay options, pickup, and/or delivery of goods wherever feasible. Such policies shall, wherever possible, consider populations that do not have access to internet service.
• Provide sanitization materials, such as hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes, to staff and customers.
• Require frequent sanitization of high-touch areas like restrooms, credit card machines, keypads, counters and shopping carts.
• Place conspicuous signage at entrances and throughout the store, if applicable, alerting staff and customers to the required six feet of physical distance.
• Demarcate six feet of spacing in check-out lines to demonstrate appropriate spacing for social distancing.
• Require workers and customers to wear cloth face coverings while on the premises, except where doing so would inhibit that individual’s health or where the individual is under two years of age, and require workers to wear gloves when in contact with customers or goods. View a video from the Surgeon General on how to make your own face covering. Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings and gloves for their employees. If a customer refuses to wear a cloth face covering for non-medical reasons and if such covering cannot be provided to the individual by the business at the point of entry, then the business must decline entry to the individual, unless if the business is providing medication, medical supplies, or food, in which case the business policy should provide alternate methods of pickup and/or delivery of such goods. Nothing in the stated policy should prevent workers or customers from wearing a surgical-grade mask or other more protective face covering if the individual is already in possession of such equipment, or if the business is otherwise required to provide such worker with more protective equipment due to the nature of the work involved. Where an individual declines to wear a face covering on store premises due to a medical condition that inhibits such usage, neither the essential retail business nor its staff shall require the individual to produce medical documentation verifying the stated condition.

Construction

Additionally, while the Executive Order directs that the physical operations of all non-essential construction projects will be suspended, the Order provides exemptions for essential construction projects, which includes projects involving facilities at which the manufacture, distribution, storage or servicing of goods or products sold by online retail businesses or essential retail businesses takes place. If you recall, our members are considered essential under EO #107. 

Manufacturing

The Executive Order further directs that manufacturing businesses, warehousing businesses, and businesses engaged in essential construction projects must adopt policies that include the following requirements:

• Prohibit non-essential visitors from entering the worksite.
• Limit worksite meetings, inductions, and workgroups to groups of fewer than ten individuals.
• Require individuals to maintain six feet or more distance between them wherever possible.
• Stagger work start and stop times where practicable to limit the number of individuals entering and leaving the worksite concurrently.
• Stagger lunch breaks and work times where practicable to enable operations to safely continue while utilizing the least number of individuals possible at the site.
• Restrict the number of individuals who can access common areas, such as restrooms and breakrooms, concurrently.
• Require workers and visitors to wear cloth face coverings, in accordance with CDC recommendations, while on the premises, except where doing so would inhibit the individual’s health or the individual is under two years of age, and require workers to wear gloves while on the premises. View a video from the Surgeon General on how to make your own face covering. Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings and gloves for their employees. If a visitor refuses to wear a cloth face covering for non-medical reasons and if such covering cannot be provided to the individual by the business at the point of entry, then the business must decline entry to the individual. Nothing in the stated policy should prevent workers or visitors from wearing a surgical-grade mask or other more protective face covering if the individual is already in possession of such equipment, or if the businesses is otherwise required to provide such workers with more protective equipment due to the nature of the work involved. Where an individual declines to wear a face covering on the premises due to a medical condition that inhibits such usage, neither the business nor its staff shall require the individual to produce medical documentation verifying the stated condition.
• Require infection control practices, such as regular hand washing, coughing and sneezing etiquette, and proper tissue usage and disposal.
• Limit sharing of tools, equipment, and machinery.
• Provide sanitization materials, such as hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes, to workers and visitors.
• Require frequent sanitization of high-touch areas like restrooms, breakrooms, equipment, and machinery.

Additional Requirements

The Executive Order further directs that all essential retail businesses, warehousing businesses, manufacturing businesses, and businesses performing essential construction projects must also adopt policies that include the following requirements:

• Immediately separate and send home workers who appear to have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 illness upon arrival at work or who become sick during the day.
• Promptly notify workers of any known exposure to COVID-19 at the worksite, consistent with the confidentiality requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and any other applicable laws.
• Clean and disinfect the worksite in accordance with CDC guidelines when a worker at the site has been diagnosed with COVID-19 illness.
• Continue to follow guidelines and directives issued by the New Jersey Department of Health, the CDC and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, as applicable, for maintaining a clean, safe and healthy work environment.

The Order directs all businesses authorized to maintain in-person operations to implement the following cleaning protocols:

• Clean and disinfect high-touch areas routinely in accordance with CDC guidelines, particularly in spaces that are accessible to staff, customers, tenants, or other individuals, and ensure cleaning procedures following a known or potential exposure in a facility are in compliance with CDC recommendations.
• Otherwise maintain cleaning procedures in all other areas of the facility.
• Ensure that the facility has a sufficient number of workers to perform the above protocols effectively and in a manner that ensures the safety of occupants, visitors, and workers.

This Order takes effect on Friday, April 10 at 8:00 p.m.

Please notify NJFC if members have recommendations regarding this Executive Order that we can bring to the Governor’s Office. As always, please contact me at (609) 392-8899 or Mary Ellen Peppard at [email protected] if we can provide additional information about these issues.

April 2

Gov. Phil Murphy Salutes Grocery Store Workers As “Mission Critical”

TRENTON – April 2, 2020 – New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has produced a video to express his appreciation to grocery store workers who he considers “a vital part of our front-line emergency response team.”

Murphy acknowledged the hard work and long hours of everyone working in grocery stores, from the employees on the loading docks to those who are stocking shelves. He also recognized the cashiers and the workers who bring the groceries out to the car for seniors who need the extra help.

“I know this time can be hard on you professionally and personally,” Murphy said in the 75-second video, adding that he is doing his best to ensure workplace safety during the COVID-19 outbreak. “You are not far from my mind.”

The governor noted that he may be considered the face of New Jersey, but to countless residents, grocery store workers are “mission critical,” a key to getting the state through this emergency. “I can’t thank you enough,” Murphy said, urging workers to remain dedicated to the job for the difficult weeks ahead.

Linda Doherty, president & CEO of the New Jersey Food Council, expressed appreciation to the governor for producing this inspiring message for an industry that collectively generates more than 1 million jobs to feed the people of the state.

“We are thankful Governor Murphy has taken this special opportunity to acknowledge the vital role of the grocery worker in our lifeline industry,” she said. “It is so critical at this moment for our dedicated workforce to know they are appreciated for their tireless efforts to keep this lifeline open for New Jersey residents.

“We hope New Jersey consumers follow the Governor’s lead and thank our grocery store workers, truckers, stockers and cashiers,” she added. 

Watch Governor Murphy’s message here.

March 27

An Open Letter to Our Government Partners and Industry Friends:

The coronavirus has upended the lives of millions of state residents, and every food retailer in New Jersey is taking the necessary precautions to keep its associates and customers safe. At the same time, we are balancing an unimagined demand for food supplies driven by public fear, media coverage, and the significant closure of restaurants and other businesses.

Food retailers understand that their mission is critical for the nine million New Jersey customers that depend on us for their health and welfare. Our members have been adjusting quickly to the new normal of intermittent out-of-stock items and sporadic customer surges. Despite enormous logistical challenges, our state’s grocery community has worked around the clock to supply food to New Jersey families, while at the same time, taking essential steps to flatten the COVID-19 curve in each of the communities we serve.

These steps start at our front doors and end as our customers are checking out. We have designed new ways to social distance and limit customer density in stores in order to continue providing a safe and sanitary place to shop. Below is a sampling of the precautions New Jersey food retailers have put in place:

• Managers along with all store associates are applying social distancing techniques and general health best practices. These communications have become part of daily management routines. Stores are adhering to important CDC recommended guidelines.

• “Golden hours” or special check-out lanes are available every day. Many retailers are offering these options for seniors, medically vulnerable customers, and first responders to allow for social distancing and easy access while shopping.

• Retailers have a substantial infrastructure in place for online ordering and delivery of groceries or curbside pickup options. We are increasing those capabilities across the state’s entire supply chain, and this is helping reduce the number of customers coming into stores.

• Food retailers have suspended self service operations.

• Signage is at the entrance, throughout the store, and announcements are made over the public address system reminding shoppers to practice social distancing.
• Many stores are installing clear plastic guards at registers for the protection of store associates and customers. Because the register may not allow for the cashier and customer to maintain a distance of six feet apart per CDC guidelines, Plexiglas guards are being added for additional protection in one of the most vulnerable areas of the store.

• Whenever possible, retailers are opening only every other register lane to create further distancing between customers at checkout instead of opening lanes right next to each other.

• Many retailers are placing tape on the floors at each register so customers understand the 6-foot distance they should keep from others. The length of a standard shopping cart also creates natural spacing for social distancing.

• To prevent community spread, customers who bring reusable bags will bag their own groceries and retailers are encouraging towns with plastic bag bans to suspend these ordinances during this national and state emergency. It has been found that COVID-19 can live on all surfaces for up to 48 hours, and any bag that is brought into a store by a customer, or handled by multiple people increases the possibility of the spread of the virus.

• Store associates are wiping down and disinfecting shopping cart handles and checkout lanes as often as needed throughout the day.

• During off hours, food retailers are deep cleaning and sanitizing the store and targeting touch points like the checkout stand, break rooms and restrooms.
Members of the Food Council have imposed these practices to protect our associates and customers. We appeal to you as a partner to support and promote these actions in these unprecedented times. Clear direction and uniform standards, consistent with current guidance from the scientific and medical community and properly messaged to the public, are paramount in order to keep New Jersey residents informed and for food retailers to manage the chaos COVID-19 has created.

As you know, our industry, as well as many others across the nation, continue to serve the public in the midst of turbulence, the likes of which we have never seen at any other time in our memory. Historically, in times of great national crisis and even at the state level, one constant has prevailed: the elevation of sound, solid social practices and the voice of reason.

As we continue to strive to keep our doors open for our guests, the lines of communication from our partners to the public is critical. We are all in this together!

Respectfully,
Linda Doherty
President & CEO
New Jersey Food Council

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Lidl COVID-19 update page.

Store hours update

To better serve our customers in this period of increased traffic and demand, we have updated our store hours. Beginning Monday, March 16, all stores will open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. until further notice.

This temporary change in store hours will give our team members extra time to work diligently to restock our shelves, clean our stores and recharge during these busy times.

We will return to our regular hours as soon as we can.

Message from Lidl president and CEO Johannes Fieber:

To our valued customers:

We know the evolving coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is top of mind for you and for families across our communities along the East Coast. As a brand that’s committed to helping our communities lead healthier lives, we want to assure you that the situation is top of mind for Lidl as well.

Every day, in every market, our number one priority is the health and safety of our customers and our team, and that focus remains our North Star as we navigate through the COVID-19 outbreak. Today, we wanted to take time to outline some of the steps and measures we are taking to keep our stores clean and you and our employees safe.

To start, Lidl has established a dedicated COVID-19 task force that is liaising closely with local, state and federal health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to ensure we are employing best practices across our stores and warehouses. Our team is committed to following recommendations from CDC and other local health authorities.

In our stores to this effect, we have already implemented enhanced preventive measures to keep our stores and facilities clean and healthy for you and our team. Stores are cleaned daily, which includes using EPA-recommended sanitizing solutions approved for use in mitigating against COVID-19. We have increased our focus on cleaning and have assigned team members to perform regular sanitizing sweeps in key high traffic, high touch areas.

Secondly, we are committed to supporting our team. We are making sure all employees have access to the most up-to-date CDC guidance and best practices, ranging from the importance of proper and regular hand washing to staying home in the event a team member is sick. We have introduced new policies that offer our employees greater flexibility. This includes limiting all non-essential travel across our business and encouraging employees to stay home if they are sick, modifying our standard attendance policy to accommodate for unexpected periods of absence without penalty. We have also restructured our benefits so that if employees are infected by the virus, or if they work in a store or facility that is included within a government or company-instituted quarantine, we will provide up to two weeks of pay while the employee is away from work.

Finally, Lidl US is working diligently to secure our supply chain and limit impacts on availability to the largest extent possible. We are also working actively with our home delivery partners to ensure that customers who wish to have Lidl products delivered are able to do so. If you’re interested in learning more about our home delivery options and whether this service is available in your area, you can find more details here.

Thank you for being a valued Lidl shopper. We take our responsibility to serve you seriously and are doing everything we can to provide a safe and healthy environment for you, our team and our communities.

Sincerely,

Johannes Fieber

President and CEO

Lidl US

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Kroger COVID-19 update page.

April 6

Kroger Family of Companies Introduces Additional Measures to Protect the Health and Safety of Customers and Associates

CINCINNATI, OH – The Kroger Family of Companies (NYSE: KR) today announced the adoption of customer capacity limits to further encourage physical distancing in stores. Beginning April 7, the retailer will begin to limit the number of customers to 50% of the international building code’s calculated capacity to allow for proper physical distancing in every store.

“Kroger’s introduction of customer capacity limits is one more way we are doing our part to flatten the curve while operating as an essential business, providing our customers with access to fresh, affordable food and products,” said Mary Ellen Adcock, Kroger’s senior vice president of operations. “During this national pandemic, we are committed to adopting preventive measures to help protect the safety and health of our associates, customers and communities.”

As an illustration, the standard building capacity for a grocery store is 1 person per 60 square feet. Under Kroger’s new reduced capacity limits, the number will be 1 person per 120 square feet. Kroger will begin to monitor the number of customers per square foot in its stores using its industry-leading QueVision technology, which already provides a count of the customers entering and exiting stores.

“By leveraging QueVision, our technology system that uses infrared sensors and predictive analytics, we will be able to more efficiently support our new capacity limits, creating a safer environment for our customers and associates,” said Yael Cosset, Kroger’s chief technology and digital officer.

Kroger’s new customer capacity limits joins other measures the retailer has established over the last few weeks to promote physical distancing, including the addition of plexiglass partitions and educational floor decals and airing of a healthy habits message via in-store radio to encourage customers to practice good hygiene and spatial awareness.

Kroger and its affiliates have also recently implemented the following protective and preventive measures:

Protective Face Masks and Gloves for Associates
The Kroger Family of Companies is encouraging associates to wear protective masks and gloves. The retailer has ordered masks for associates nationwide, with supply starting to arrive in select regions and the anticipation of all locations having supply by the end of this week.

Associate Wellness Checks
The Kroger Family of Companies is asking associates to closely monitor their health and take their temperature at home prior to coming to work. If they experience symptoms, including a fever, they are encouraged to contact their health care provider and stay home. Under its expanded COVID-19 emergency leave guidelines, associates self-isolating or experiencing symptoms as verified by an health care professional are eligible to receive their standard pay for up to two weeks (14 days).

The retailer started testing temperature checks in its distribution centers several weeks ago and is beginning to expand associate temperature checks to stores. Kroger and its affiliates are following local ordinances in cities or counties that mandate employee temperature checks, and associates may also request to have their temperature taken at work.

Piloting One-Way Aisles in Select Markets
The Kroger Family of Companies has started to test one-way aisles in select markets to determine its effectiveness as a measure to further support physical distancing.

Waived Prescription Delivery Fees
The Kroger Family of Pharmacies is temporarily waiving fees for prescription delivery via mail or courier. To learn more about the options and availability, customers should contact their local pharmacy location.

Continuing Kroger’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Commitment
As part of Kroger’s commitment to end hunger and eliminate waste in its communities by 2025, the retailer continues to allow its customers to use reusable shopping bags, provided there is not a state or local ordinance that prohibits use. The retailer encourages its customers to frequently clean and wipe down their reusable shopping bags to help maintain a safe shopping environment.

Reduced Holiday Hours
The Kroger Family of Companies is closing early on Easter Sunday, April 12, to provide its associates with more time to rest and be with their families. Holiday operating hours will vary by location and market.

April 1

Kroger Provides Business Update Related to COVID-19

CINCINNATI, OH -The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today filed its annual report on Form 10-K and announced business updates in response to the impact from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

“Kroger’s most urgent priority is to provide a safe environment for associates and customers, with open stores, comprehensive digital solutions and an efficiently-operating supply chain, so that our communities have access to fresh, affordable food and essentials,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO. “We are so proud of our dedicated associates who are on the front lines serving our customers when they need us most. A huge thank you to all of our associates, whose efforts are nothing short of heroic.”

After experiencing strong sales in February, the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a significantly greater lift in sales across both physical retail stores and digital channels in March. Customers shop with Kroger in times of uncertainty because it is a brand they trust. In addition, Kroger has made significant investments for several years to enhance the seamless ecosystem for customers. As customers look for more digital solutions during the pandemic, Kroger is well-positioned to support them with pick-up, delivery and ship to home solutions. To advance operations and support the accelerated sales growth, the Kroger family of companies is making investments in its workforce, associate and customer safety, and the supply chain.

Kroger leadership is closely monitoring the impact of the pandemic on food retail across global markets. From early observations, Kroger is seeing trends similar to other markets affected by the pandemic. The Kroger family of companies started to see a significant shift in customer behavior during the last few days of February as shoppers started stocking up. Sales sharply accelerated in March with identical retail supermarket sales without fuel up approximately 30 percent. This was driven by dramatically heightened demand in the middle of the month as customers were stockpiling, which then tapered, but remained higher than normal in the final week, as customers adjusted to the new dining, work and travel restrictions. The demand has been broad based across grocery and fresh departments. It is too early to speculate what will emerge as the “new normal” in food consumption at home or what the impact on sales will be in future periods.

The Kroger family of companies is investing in special pay above regular wages for frontline hourly associates, providing expanded paid sick leave, and hiring a record number of new associates. It likewise is investing in safety protocols throughout its operations, including more frequent and rigorous cleaning and sanitization procedures in stores, distribution centers and manufacturing facilities. Kroger is also investing in its supply chain to expand capacity where possible. These investments are supporting associates, customers and communities through the pandemic, and will help the company emerge stronger as a result.

“We are seeing strong sales and are at the same time investing in our business to support our customers and associates through the current uncertainty,” said Gary Millerchip, Kroger’s chief financial officer.

As a result of recent trends, Kroger expects first quarter identical sales excluding fuel and adjusted EPS to be better than the annual growth rate provided in guidance for full year 2020.

Looking towards the rest of the year, Kroger expects volatility in sales throughout the year as the impact of COVID-19 on the consumer evolves, and anticipates the following to have an impact on full-year results:

• Continued investments to help our customers and associates through the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Delay of certain cost-saving initiatives to focus all resources where they are needed most in the short term – to address the impact of COVID-19. The company has plans in place to resume these initiatives quickly, when the timing is right.
• Uncertainty surrounding the longer-term impact of COVID-19, including the length of travel and other restrictions, on food and grocery sales, fuel and alternative profit streams.
• Potential long-term shift in customer behavior toward eating more food at home.

In light of all these factors, Kroger leadership believes maintaining current guidance is prudent at this time and is therefore reconfirming guidance for full year 2020.

Kroger’s financial model has proven to be resilient throughout the economic cycle. Kroger continues to generate strong free cash flow and maintain strong liquidity. As a precautionary measure to reduce reliance on the commercial paper market and preserve financial flexibility in response to the coronavirus pandemic, Kroger proactively borrowed $1 billion under its revolving credit facility on March 18, 2020. Cash and temporary cash investments were approximately $2.3 billion and there were no commercial paper borrowings outstanding immediately following the draw down. To maintain financial flexibility, Kroger has decided to pause additional share repurchases during the fiscal first quarter. Kroger had already repurchased $355 million shares during the quarter under its $1 billion board authorization announced November 5, 2019, leaving $245 million remaining under the authorization. Kroger remains committed to maintaining a net total debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio target range between 2.30 to 2.50.

Additional Details of Associate Investments
The Kroger family of companies is protecting the health and safety of its associates and customers by:

• Enhancing daily sanitation practices, including cleaning commonly used areas more often like cashier stations, self-checkouts, credit card terminals, food service counters and shelves.
• Permitting and working hard to procure protective masks and gloves for associates.
• Installing plexiglass partitions at check lanes, pharmacy and Starbucks registers across the enterprise.
• Adding floor decals to promote physical distancing at check lanes and other counters.
• Adjusting store operating hours to allow more time for our associates to rest, clean and replenish inventory.
• Continuing to expand online pickup and delivery, and contactless payment solutions like Kroger Pay.

The Kroger family of companies is supporting associates in a variety of ways, including:

• Providing a Hero Bonus – a $2 premium above standard base rate of pay, applied to hours worked March 29 through April 18 – for all hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call center associates. This follows and is in addition to the company’s previous commitment shared on March 21, which provided a one-time bonus to frontline associates, which pays out on April 3.
• Beginning next week, Kroger and certain of its affiliates are adding ExpressPay – a new benefit that allows most hourly associates to access some of their pay faster, putting money in their pockets sooner than usual.
• Helping associates who are affected by COVID-19 – whether experiencing symptoms and self-isolating, diagnosed or placed in quarantine – be supported with paid time off.
• Making additional resources available for those facing hardship, including lack of access to childcare and for those considered high-risk, due to COVID-19 through the Kroger Family of Companies Helping Hands fund.
• Establishing an Associate Hotline to answer benefit questions quickly.
• Providing access to mental health services and other benefits to support associates’ mental and physical well-being during this stressful time.
• The Kroger family of companies has hired more than 32,700 new associates in the last two weeks, including workers from the hardest-hit sectors like restaurants, hotels and food service distributors.

Kroger and its affiliates are supporting communities in a variety of ways, including:

• The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation is rapidly deploying more than $3 million in hunger-relief resources to communities disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic through its nonprofit partners, Feeding America and No Kid Hungry. The funding will not only support local food banks nationwide, but also fund initiatives that ensure children, whose schools may be closed, still have access to nutritious meals.
• Making it easy for customers to support The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation’s mission to create communities free of hunger and waste by choosing to roundup their purchases to the nearest dollar at every self-checkout lane in America or donate at ZeroHungerZeroWasteFoundation.org.
• Donating food and funds to local food banks and hunger-relief efforts.
• The Kroger Co. Foundation supported the American Red Cross Annual Disaster Giving Program and Disaster Responder Program at the $500,000 level for 2020, enabling the Red Cross to develop capacity, leaders and resources to provide relief.

This press release contains certain statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” about the future performance of the company. These statements are based on management’s assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Such statements are indicated by words or phrases such as “believe,” “commit,” “continue,” “expect,” “future,” “guidance,” “strategy,” “trend,” and “will.” Various uncertainties and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. These include the specific risk factors identified in “Risk Factors” in our annual report on Form 10-K for our last fiscal year and any subsequent filings, as well as the following:

• Kroger’s ability to achieve sales, earnings, incremental FIFO operating profit, and adjusted free cash flow goals may be affected by: COVID-19 related factors, risks and challenges, including among others, the length of time that the pandemic continues, the temporary inability of customers to shop due to illness, quarantine, or other travel restrictions or financial hardship, shifts in demand away from discretionary or higher priced products to lower priced products, or stockpiling or similar pantry-filling activities, reduced workforces which may be caused by, but not limited to, the temporary inability of the workforce to work due to illness, quarantine, or government mandates, or temporary store closures due to reduced workforces or government mandates; labor negotiations or disputes; changes in the types and numbers of businesses that compete with Kroger; pricing and promotional activities of existing and new competitors, including non-traditional competitors, and the aggressiveness of that competition; Kroger’s response to these actions; the state of the economy, including interest rates, the inflationary and deflationary trends in certain commodities, changes in tariffs, and the unemployment rate; the effect that fuel costs have on consumer spending; volatility of fuel margins; changes in government-funded benefit programs and the extent and effectiveness of any COVID-19 stimulus packages; manufacturing commodity costs; diesel fuel costs related to Kroger’s logistics operations; trends in consumer spending; the extent to which Kroger’s customers exercise caution in their purchasing in response to economic conditions; the uncertainty of economic growth or recession; changes in inflation or deflation in product and operating costs; stock repurchases; Kroger’s ability to retain pharmacy sales from third party payors; consolidation in the healthcare industry, including pharmacy benefit managers; Kroger’s ability to negotiate modifications to multi-employer pension plans; natural disasters or adverse weather conditions; the effect of public health crises or other significant catastrophic events, including the coronavirus; the potential costs and risks associated with potential cyber-attacks or data security breaches; the success of Kroger’s future growth plans; the ability to execute on Restock Kroger; and the successful integration of merged companies and new partnerships. Our ability to achieve these goals may also be affected by our ability to manage the factors identified above. Our ability to execute our financial strategy may be affected by our ability to generate cash flow.
• Kroger’s ability to achieve these goals may also be affected by Kroger’s ability to manage the factors identified above.
• Kroger’s effective tax rate may differ from the expected rate due to changes in laws, the status of pending items with various taxing authorities, and the deductibility of certain expenses.

Kroger assumes no obligation to update the information contained herein. Please refer to Kroger’s reports and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a further discussion of these risks and uncertainties.

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March 31

Kroger Family of Companies Announces Hero Bonus for All Hourly Frontline Associates

CINCINNATI, OH- The Kroger Family of Companies (NYSE: KR) today announced that it will provide all hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing, pharmacy and call center associates with a Hero Bonus – a $2 premium above their standard base rate of pay, applied to hours worked March 29 through April 18. The premium will be disbursed weekly to ensure associates have access to additional cash.

Today’s announcement follows and is in addition to Kroger’s previous commitment shared on March 21, which provided a one-time bonus to frontline associates, which pays out on April 3.

“Our associates have displayed the true actions of a hero, working tirelessly on the frontlines to ensure everyone has access to affordable, fresh food and essentials during this national emergency,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO. “The Hero Bonus is just one more way we continue to convey our thanks and gratitude not only to our existing associates but also to the more than 30,000 new hires who have joined in the past two weeks and those who will soon join the Kroger Family of Companies.”

“Recently, we announced an appreciation bonus for our hourly frontline associates. This gesture was to thank our associates for everything they have done during the past few weeks,” said Tim Massa, Kroger’s senior vice president and chief people officer. “However, we recognize that this crisis is far from over, and after reflecting on associate feedback and working together with our union partners, we want to further acknowledge our terrific team for their hard work to date as well as the work yet to come.”

Associate and Customer Well-being and Safety

“During this unprecedented time, Kroger’s most urgent priority is to provide a safe environment for associates and customers, with open stores and an efficiently operating supply chain,” continued McMullen.

To protect associates and customers and flatten the curve, The Kroger Family of Companies has taken several preventive steps, including:

• Enhancing our daily sanitation practices, including cleaning commonly used areas more often like cashier stations, self-checkouts, credit card terminals, food service counters and shelves.
• Permitting and working hard to procure protective masks and gloves for associates.
• Installing plexiglass partitions at check lanes, and pharmacy and Starbucks registers across the enterprise.
• Adding floor decals to promote physical distancing at check lanes and other counters.
• Adjusting store operating hours to allow more time for associates to rest, clean and replenish inventory.
• Continuing to expand pickup and delivery services and contactless payment solutions like Kroger Pay.

Additional Associate Support and Resources

In addition to the Hero Bonus and appreciation bonus, The Kroger Family of Companies is taking several additional actions to support associates during this extraordinary time, including:

• Ensuring associates who are affected by COVID-19 – whether experiencing symptoms and self-isolating, diagnosed or placed in quarantine – can recover with the support of emergency paid leave.
• Beginning next week, the Kroger Family of Companies is adding ExpressPay – a new benefit that allows most hourly associates to access some of their pay faster, putting money in their pockets sooner than usual.
• Making $5 million available for those facing hardship, including lack of access to childcare and for those considered higher-risk, due to COVID-19 through the Kroger Family of Companies Helping Hands
• Offering an associate hotline to answer benefit questions quickly.
• Providing access to mental health services and other benefits to support associates’ mental and physical well-being during this stressful time.
• Supporting associates by onboarding more than 30,600 new hires in the last two weeks, including workers from the hardest-hit sectors like restaurants, hotels and food service distributors.

Community Support and Uplift

The Kroger Family of Companies is also uplifting communities in a variety of ways during this unprecedented time, including:

• The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation is rapidly deploying more than $3 million in hunger-relief resources to communitiesdisproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic through its nonprofit partners, Feeding America and No Kid Hungry. The funding will not only support local food banks nationwide, but also fund initiatives that ensure children, whose schools may be closed, still have access to nutritious meals.
• Making it easy for customers to support The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation’s mission to create communities free of hunger and waste by choosing to roundup their purchases to the nearest dollar at every self-checkout lane or donate at org.
• Donating food and funds to local food banks and hunger-relief efforts.
• The Kroger Co. Foundation supported the American Red Cross Annual Disaster Giving Program and Disaster Responder Program at the $500,000 level for 2020, enabling the Red Cross to develop capacity, leaders and resources to provide relief.

March 27

Kroger Family of Companies Provides New Career Opportunities To 23,500 Workers

CINCINNATI, OH- The Kroger Family of Companies (NYSE: KR) today announced it has recently provided new career opportunities to more than 23,500 workers nationwide, including those from the hardest-hit sectors like restaurants, hotels and food service distributors. Kroger plans to hire an additional 20,000 workers over the next several weeks to help it to continue to provide fresh food and useful supplies to communities across the country during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Kroger’s top priority continues to be uplifting our associates and serving our communities, whether that’s by ensuring customers always can find food and products on our shelves or by providing a nearly immediate job opportunity to help an unemployed person to begin working again,” said Tim Massa, Kroger’s senior vice president and chief people officer. “During this time of uncertainty, Kroger is committed to remaining a constant. We have a responsibility to our associates, customers and communities, and we will continue to be here…for any need.”

Kroger initiated its expedited hiring process two weeks ago to shorten the time between application and employment, onboarding new hires in an average of 72 hours. Kroger’s human resources leaders are working seven days a week to quickly interview and recruit new talent that can uplift the company’s culture and Purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit.

Additionally, Kroger is forming employment partnerships with local, regional and national businesses from the most-affected industries to create a shared-resource model to temporarily flex employees to Kroger roles, ensuring the food supply chain continues without disruption. Current partners include Frisch’s, Marriott International, McLane Foodservice, Shamrocks Food, Sodexo, SodexoMAGIC, Sysco, Thunderdome Restaurant Group and US Foods.

Open roles remain nationwide across Kroger’s retail stores, manufacturing plants and distribution centers. Candidates may apply via jobs.kroger.com. Kroger’s average hourly wage is $15 an hour. And with comprehensive benefits factored in, the company’s average hourly rate is over $20.

March 21

Kroger Family of Companies Announces Appreciation Bonus for Associates and Expands 14-Day COVID-19 Emergency Leave Guidelines

CINCINNATI, OH- The Kroger Family of Companies (NYSE: KR) today announced that it will provide a one-time bonus to every hourly frontline grocery, supply chain, manufacturing and customer service associate, amounting to $300 for every full-time associate and $150 for every part-time associate.

“Grocery workers are on the frontlines, ensuring Americans have access to the food and products they need during this unprecedented pandemic,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO. “Our associates are working around the clock to keep our stores open for our customers. I am incredibly grateful for all they are doing. The true heroes in this story are our associates, and we want to provide them with additional resources and support to help them continue their remarkable effort.”

“In every decision we make, we strive to balance our most urgent mission – to be here for our communities when they need us most – with ensuring the safety of our associates, customers and communities.”

The special bonus will be paid to frontline associates who were hired on or before March 1, covers the payroll period March 8 – 28, and will be payable on April 3.

Expanded 14-Day COVID-19 Emergency Leave Guidelines
The company today also expanded its COVID-19 emergency leave guidelines to include paid time off for self-isolation and symptoms as verified by an accredited health care professional. This expands the new guidelines, announced on March 14, which allows paid time off for associates diagnosed with or placed under quarantine due to COVID-19. In each scenario, all associates will be eligible to receive their standard pay for up to two weeks (14 days).

“We believe that by expanding our emergency leave guidelines, more of our associates can feel certain knowing that if their health is affected by or if they experience symptoms of COVID-19, they will be supported while they stay at home and recover,” said Tim Massa, Kroger’s senior vice president and chief people officer. “We are appreciative of all of our managers who have been working individually with associates in recognition that every associate’s situation is personal. We also want to make it easier for associates to follow our guidance to stay home if they feel sick and to do our part to flatten the curve.”

For those affected by COVID-19, the organization has also made available additional resources through the Kroger Family of Companies Helping Hands fund to provide financial assistance to associates who face hardship due to COVID-19, including lack of access to childcare and for those considered higher-risk.

Message from the president and CEO of Kroger, Rodney McMullen:

We’re Here for Our Customers & Communities

At The Kroger Co., our customers are like family. And like you, during these last few weeks we’ve been focused on doing all the things we need to do to keep our families safe and healthy.

As America’s grocer, we’re here for our customers and communities when they need us most, with open stores and openhearted hospitality.

We believe that everyone deserves to have access to fresh, affordable food and essentials, especially in times of uncertainty. That’s why our teams are working so hard to keep our stores clean, open and stocked. That’s why we took the precautionary step on March 2 to limit the number of cold, flu and sanitary products per order…so everyone can have access to the items they need. And that’s why our supply chain teams are working to ensure that the food, medicine and cleaning supplies our customers need are reaching our stores as quickly as possible and are available through our pickup, delivery and ship services.

We activated our preparedness plan several weeks ago, and we continue to monitor the rapidly evolving situation. We’re following guidance from federal, state and local agencies, including the CDC and other health organizations.

Here are the steps we’re taking to protect our customers and associates:

In Our Stores

• Cleaning commonly used areas more often, including cashier stations, self-checkouts, credit card terminals, conveyor belts and food service counters, and cleaning shelves when restocking products.
• Sanitizing restrooms more frequently and restocking with supplies, including soap, paper towels and hand sanitizer.
• Adding extra hand sanitizer at cashier stations, food service counters, and all Pharmacy, The Little Clinic and Starbucks locations.
• Wiping down shopping carts, baskets and equipment.
• Partnering with our suppliers to replenish high-demand preparedness products.
• Continuing to provide our customers with free disinfectant wipes at our store entrances to sanitize their shopping carts or baskets.
• Following best practices for safe food handling, as always.

For Our Associates

• Encouraging our associates to closely monitor their health and well-being.
• Providing hand sanitizer and tissues in breakrooms and meeting rooms.
• Asking our associates to stay home if they, or someone in their household, are sick.
• Providing financial support from our Helping Hands fund – a company-sponsored employee assistance fund – to associates who may be directly affected.
• Suspending business air travel for associates through March 31, 2020 and recommending virtual meetings.

For Our Customers

• Encouraging our customers to follow the CDC’s suggested hygiene practices to reduce the spread of the virus.
• Recommending that our customers also practice safe food handling at home.
• In everything we do, we’re guided by our values and our Purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit. We strive to make decisions that balance the safety of our associates with our commitments to our customers and communities. And above all else, we’ll be there for our communities when they need us most.

Thank you for being a loyal customer,

Rodney McMullen

Chairman and CEO

Updated Store Hours

Kroger

Please see adjusted store hours below. Remaining stores and regions not listed are continuing to operate under normal business hours.

• Ashland, KY: 7am – 10pm
• Cincinnati, OH; Dayton, OH; Northern, KY: 7am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday – Thursday)
• Columbus, OH; Toledo, OH: 7am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday – Thursday)
• Dallas: Normal operating hours (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 6am – 7:30am, Tuesday & Thursday)
• Georgia: 8am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday – Thursday)
• Houston, TX Region: Most stores open 7am – 10pm
• Indianapolis, IN; Central IN store locations; Peoria, IL: 7am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday – Thursday)
• Lexington, KY; Louisville; KY; Southern IN store locations; Southern IL store locations: Check your local store hours
• Michigan: 7am – 9pm
• Middle TN store locations; Knoxville, TN; Huntsville, AL; Bowling Green, KY: 7am – 9pm
• Southeastern OH (Belpre, Marietta, Proctorville): 7am – 10pm
• Southern Alabama store locations: 8am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday – Thursday)
• South Carolina: 8am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday – Thursday)
• Tri-Cities, TN store locations: 7am – 10pm
• Virginia: 7am – 10pm
• West Virginia: 7am – 10pm
• Baker’s: 7am – 10pm
• City Market: 7am – 8pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
• Copps: 6am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 6am – 8am, Daily)
• Dillons: 7am – 9pm
• Fry’s Food Stores: 7am –9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 6am – 7am, Monday – Thursday)
• Food 4 Less: 8am – 8pm
• Foods Co: 8am – 8pm
• Fred Meyer: 7am – 10pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday – Thursday)
• Gerbes: 7am – 10pm
• Harris Teeter: 7am – 8pm
• Jay-C Food Stores: 7am – 10pm
• King Soopers: 7am – 8pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
• Mariano’s: 6am – 10pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 6am – 8am, Daily)
• Metro Market: 6am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 6am – 8am, Daily)
• Owen’s Market: 7am – 9pm
• Pay-Less Super Markets: 7am – 9pm
• Pick ‘N Save: 6am – 9pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 6am – 8am, Daily)
• QFC: 8am – 8pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday – Thursday)
• Ralphs: 7am – 8pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 7:30am)
• Ruler Foods: Please see daily store hours https://rulerfoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Operating-Hours-image.jpg
• Smith’s Food and Drug: 8am – 8pm (Exclusive Shopping for Seniors 60 & Older: 7am – 8am, Monday, Wednesday, Friday)

Return Policy Update

At The Kroger Co., the health and wellbeing of our associates, customers and communities is our top priority.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we are temporarily suspending product returns.

* If any fresh produce, meat, seafood or deli product does not meet our Fresh for Everyone standard, we will continue to replace it or issue a refund.

FAQs

Q: Why are you not taking my return?

A: One of our core values is safety. Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic and our inability to monitor products that have left our stores, we are declining all returns (including refunds, store credits and product exchanges) for the safety of our customers and associates.

Q: Why was this not posted sooner?

A: We continue to closely monitor the rapidly evolving situation and make decisions that allow us to operate clean, open and stocked stores to serve our customers and support our associates. Out of an abundance of caution, we made the decision to temporarily suspend returns to protect the safety of our associates and customers.

Q: What if my product didn’t meet freshness standards?

A: We stand by our quality and freshness of food. If your fresh produce, meat, seafood or deli product do not meet our freshness standards, we will replace or refund those items.

Q: What is the time frame when you will start taking returns?

A: We will continue to closely monitor guidance from state and local agencies and adjust our policies accordingly.

Q: What are the customer’s benefits for us not accepting returns?

A: Customers can feel a sense of safety when purchasing products off our shelves. All products customers purchase off our shelves have not left the store.

Q: What if I purchased expired items?

A: If the product expiration date was before the buy date, we will accept a return as part of our Fresh for Everyone guarantee.

Q: Would this include clothing?

A: Yes, anything non-perishable.

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Kings CEO Updates and FAQs page.

March 19

Message from the CEO of Kings Food Markets, Judy Spires

The COVID-19 pandemic is testing us all in seemingly impossible ways. I wake up each day knowing that a new development will thwart our best-laid plans. Our executive task force meets daily to address the urgent and medium-range issues facing our Kings guests and associates. Here’s the latest:

Sanitation & Adjusted Store Hours: Beginning Sunday, March 22nd, we’re closing our stores earlier to give our team additional time to sanitize our stores and restock the shelves. All stores will now be open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Quick reminder: our cashiers can type in your myKingsExtra number so you won’t have to touch the keypad and they wipe down their registers regularly.

Supply: The merchant team is literally scouring the country to source product from new and existing suppliers to keep our shelves stocked with needed goods. But as you’re aware, we’re experiencing industry-wide challenges which are delaying deliveries. There could be times during the day when goods are unavailable. To be fair to everyone, we’ve had to limit quantities on some high-demand items as signage in stores will indicate.

Staffing: We are currently staffing up in a number of positions across the stores. In addition to supporting our current staff, we’re hoping that we’ll be able to help members of our community in the hospitality and retail sectors who are recently out of work. If you know of anyone who is looking for employment, please send them to us.

Senior & High-Risk Guest Hours: We’ve designated the first hour each day (7:00 – 8:00 AM) for our seniors and immuno-compromised neighbors. Please respect this time. If the first hour of opening is the only time you can shop, please consider delivery.

Supporting the health and welfare of our communities is now more important than ever. We’re making a donation to the Community FoodBank of NJ as well as supporting a number of smaller local pantries. If you’re able to give too, a little goes a long way. In that spirit, the Community FoodBank of NJ is bringing back their hallmark Check-Out Hunger program, where you can donate $1, $3 and $5 and 100% of your donations will go to your local Feeding America Food Banks.

Be assured that our guests have been respecting social distancing and keeping plenty of space between themselves and others while in store. We are monitoring all of our stores closely and will adjust policies as needed. If you haven’t already, subscribe to our social channels so you have all the latest news. We’ll be updating the FAQs below as policies change and please feel free to call our customer service line if you have questions, 800.325.4647.

In the midst of all of these seemingly impossible challenges, our store associates are getting things done in absolutely heroic fashion and for this I am so grateful. We will continue to support them in every way possible.

Please take care and thank you for your patronage during this unprecedented time.

All my best,

Judy Spires

March 13

Considering the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) developments, I wanted to update you on the precautions and practices that we are taking in our stores. Our Associates continue to follow the CDC guidelines for prevention to help safeguard themselves and you. Surfaces are continually being sanitized and our Associates are taking all precautions.

We are replenishing stock as fast as we can based on product availability from our vendors. This situation is changing on a daily—and sometimes hourly—basis. In order to provide as much of our inventory to all our guests and in accordance with state recommendations, we may have to limit purchases on household cleaners, toilet paper and health-related items.

We also offer online ordering at delivery.kingsfoodmarkets.com, and your order can be left at your door if you choose. To use this new feature, simply select “Leave at My Door” as part of your delivery options at checkout. You’ll receive a photo confirmation from your shopper once your groceries are delivered.

We are focused, now more than ever, on being the brand that has earned your trust and will continue to uphold the highest standards.

Please take care of yourself, your family and your community.

All my best,

Judy Spires

KINGS FOOD MARKET FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ON COVID-19 SAFETY PROCEDURES

The health and safety of our guests and associates is our number one priority. We assembled a multifunctional task force that includes key leaders across the organization who meet daily to ensure we continue to address all facets of this developing situation. We are actively working with our safety experts, vendors and suppliers to ensure that we can continue to offer you the freshest, specialty foods and meal offerings. We are monitoring CDC guidelines as well as industry groups daily, and will continue to update you.

The below FAQs represent our latest updates. Please direct any questions to our customer service team.

Q: What steps has Kings taken to ensure their team members are following the CDC guidelines for preventing the spread of germs?

A: We have reiterated the CDC guidelines to team members in daily store management huddles, department meetings and company-wide communications, as well as in-store signage and the breakrooms. Additionally, we have gone above and beyond our stringent sanitation program to include additional checkpoints across the organization to enhance existing protocols. This includes increased labor hours dedicated to cleaning high-traffic areas, and wiping down carts, baskets and handles. We also offer online shopping and delivery for convenience.

For more details on COVID-19, news updates and preparedness, visit the CDC’s website.

Q: Are store hours changing?

A: Yes, as of Sunday, March 22, all Kings Food Markets will be open from 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM in order to give our associates more time to sanitize our stores and restock the shelves.  Please be advised that we’re dedicating our first hour of service (7:00 – 8:00 AM) for seniors and immuno-compromised guests.

Q: How will I be notified if my local store has been impacted?

A: The most efficient way is to follow our social channels, send an inquiry to kingsfoodmarkets.com/customer-service, or call 1-800-325-4647.

In the event a store has been impacted, we will also have signage at the front door letting our guests know what actions are being taken. We will close the store for a thorough cleaning by a professional disaster relief cleaning service.

Q: Do I still need to use the PIN pad to enter a phone number for the myKings Extra Savings?

A: If you prefer, our Associates will happily enter your phone number on the register for you.

Q: How can I help as a guest shopper?

A: We have temporarily suspended sampling, but please ask a team member if there is a product you would like to try.

Q: Is there a time for high-risk guests to shop?

A: We are reserving the first hour of shopping (7:00-8:00 AM) for our elderly and high-risk guests. Check here for your local store hours.

Q: Are you continuing to offer a circular?

A: Due to high product demand and ever-changing inventory, we have temporarily postponed the distribution of our circular.  All member sale prices are still available in-store and through our online product catalog.  Visit products.kingsfoodmarkets.com, select your store and the “All Sale Items” box on the left.

Q: Do you offer grocery delivery?

A: We offer grocery delivery through our partner, Instacart. Like many grocery delivery services, we are experiencing a high demand which is impacting the standard same-day delivery times. You will see the available delivery windows in the check-out process.

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Key Food COVID-19 notice page.

To our valued customers:

As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to develop, we wanted to take some time to communicate that our customers’ safety and well-being remains our top priority for Key Food and our family of supermarkets. We are taking this situation very seriously, and as such are working with our store owners to ensure all store personnel are actively updated and informed to take the necessary precautions to maintain safe shopping environments. Stores have been advised to act in accordance with the recommendations of the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) in order to protect our valued customers in the coming weeks.

Our stores are working diligently with suppliers to resolve any inventory issues and continue providing a seamless experience; however, in some cases item shortages are unavoidable, and we truly appreciate your patience and understanding in the interim.

In addition to the precautions being taken in our stores, our online shopping customers may have noticed that Instacart has now added the option for contactless delivery. When finalizing your online order, just select the box next to “Leave at my door if I am not around” and the shopper will deliver your groceries to your doorstep without physically handing them off and risking any exposure.

We consider all of our customers to be members of our Key Food family, and as such we are doing our part to serve you to the best of our ability during this time. We are grateful to have the opportunity to serve you and will do our best to continue fostering a safe grocery shopping experience.

Thank you,

Key Food and Our Family of Supermarkets

UPDATE: Some of our stores have created senior-only shopping hours to accommodate their senior citizen customers. Please see below for a list of the participating stores and their hours.

https://www.keyfood.com/store/keyFood/en/notice?fbclid=IwAR095JM0SAK_qNrS3d4CBEwwUYbMdmg6eo6hL1OvDHpkRmrvRs6VNi9T4jU

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Kennie’s Marketplace website.

Message from the president of Kennie’s Markets Craig Easter:

Our team, their families, vendors, and the communities we serve are our passion at Kennie’s Market. We are reviewing most current facts and researching this newest challenge every day. Processes have been put in place to keep everyone as safe as possible. We will continue to monitor and improve these processes as needed in the days to come. We are working hard to secure products our communities need and keeping our stores clean for our teams and you.

With every new challenge we face, our partnerships with our communities are vital in our success. We appreciate our opportunity to serve you, and welcome any questions or suggestions we can assist you with. As we have in the past 60 years, we can get through anything if we work together.

Craig Easter

President

* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Karns Foods website.

March 19

Karns is temporarily updating our hours of operations starting Thursday.

These changes will allow the following:

1 – create a designated time for those that must venture out but are high-risk to shop in a less crowded environment

2 – allow additional time at the conclusion of the day to clean and sanitize

3 – provide additional time for our team members to restock the store

Thank you for your help as we join together to support one another.

**Wondering what age? The option is in place for those that feel they need extra space due to mobility, age and health issues. Karns is allowing individuals to decide if this hour is something that would benefit their health. We are a community and need to work together to provide the best environment possible. In this situation, that means trusting that those that utilize the time are