Food Trade News

Rite Aid COVID-19 Update

* 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 Rite Aid COVID-19 update page.

March 23, 2020

If you need to visit a Rite Aid store and you have been diagnosed with Coronavirus (COVID-19) or exhibit symptoms, PLEASE CALL AHEAD, so we can properly serve you and reduce the potential spread of the virus in the community.  You can also use our drive thru or FREE delivery service. Ask your pharmacist.

Here’s how we are supporting our front line associates:

We couldn’t be more proud and appreciative of how our associates are responding to this unprecedented crisis. The COVID-19 outbreak has challenged our team and our communities like never before, and all of us have been going above and beyond to stay safe and serve our customers at a time when they need us most.

We recognize that the pandemic is creating financial strain for hourly associates who work in Rite Aid’s retail locations and distribution centers. To help our associates we are doing the following.

Pandemic Pay for Rite Aid Stores, DCs and RediClinic retail locations

Our policy that ensures associates are fairly compensated if diagnosed with the virus or quarantined due to exposure.

Hero Pay for Rite Aid Stores, DCs and RediClinic retail locations

Non-management hourly associates who work in a retail Rite Aid store, RediClinic location or distribution center warehouse will receive a temporary Hero Pay increase of $2 per hour effective now.

Hero Bonus

In recognition of the heroic efforts of our retail store management, including pharmacists along with distribution center management, and RediClinic professional associates, we will be providing them with a Hero Bonus.

Temporary Increase of Associate Discount

To help our teams and families get easier, more affordable access to the products that will keep them safe, we are temporarily increasing the associate discount to 35% (from 20%) on all eligible products and services in our stores.

Employee Safety

Our stores and distribution centers are following enhanced cleaning and sanitation protocols designed specifically to prevent the spread of all viruses, including COVID-19 and the flu. In addition to our external cleaning providers who professionally cleanse and sanitize our stores, we have increased the frequency by which our associates clean high traffic surfaces throughout the day.

Our associates are on the front lines of the Coronavirus outbreak, and we greatly appreciate all they are doing to serve those in need. Community health starts with them. Take care and stay healthy. We will get through this together.


Message from the president and CEO of Rite Aid, Heyward Donigan

To Our Friends & Neighbors,

At Rite Aid, keeping our communities and associates healthy is at the center of what we do. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, I wanted to provide an update about how we’re working to make that happen.

For our associates:

To protect our workers on the front lines of this pandemic, Rite Aid has established a “Pandemic Pay” policy, which ensures associates are fairly compensated if diagnosed with the virus or quarantined due to exposure.

Rite Aid also recognizes that the pandemic is creating financial strain for hourly associates who work in Rite Aid’s retail locations and distribution centers. To help:

Non-management hourly associates (who work in a retail Rite Aid store, RediClinic location or distribution center) will receive a temporary Hero Pay increase of $2 per hour, effective March 15, 2020, through at least May 2, 2020.

Rite Aid is increasing our associate discount beginning March 24, to 35%, on all eligible products and services in our stores until at least April 2020.

In recognition of the heroic efforts of our retail store management, including pharmacists along with distribution center management, and RediClinic professional associates, we will be providing them with a Hero Bonus.

For our customers:

Home-delivery service from Rite Aid is available upon request and the company will waive delivery-service fees for eligible prescriptions.

Customers should contact their local Rite Aid pharmacist for details. Controlled substances and/or refrigerated medications are not eligible for delivery.

Rite Aid pharmacists are partnering with various pharmacy benefit organizations and local physicians and can speak to customers about options, including 90-day refills, early refill authorizations and prescription delivery.

Rite Aid’s current supply of generic medications is presently sufficient and the company does not anticipate any significant near-term supply chain disruptions that will affect its ability to fill prescriptions.

As you know, this is a fluid situation, so we will provide updates accordingly.

Thank you to our customers and associates for your unwavering support. As always, if you have any questions about your medications or care, healthcare professionals and pharmacists are available 24/7 at 1-800-Rite Aid or through a live chat on RiteAid.com.

Heyward Donigan
President and Chief Executive Officer, Rite Aid


March 13, 2020

At Rite Aid, the health and wellness of our communities, customers and associates is our first priority. Like you, we are concerned about recent developments surrounding COVID-19, also known as coronavirus. As a healthcare company, we are taking proactive precautions to minimize risk in our stores, offices and distribution centers.

Our stores and distribution centers are following enhanced cleaning and sanitation protocols designed specifically to prevent the spread of all viruses, including COVID-19 and the flu. In addition to our external cleaning providers who professionally cleanse and sanitize our stores, we have increased the frequency by which our associates clean high traffic surfaces throughout the day.

We are working around the clock to procure products like sanitizer, cleansers, rubbing alcohol, and other items our customers need. We’ve also significantly increased our staffing levels to fill online orders quicker. We established in-store and online purchase limits on certain items to ensure that these products are available to the greatest number of customers. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue to work on replenishing merchandise.

We encourage you to visit our stores’ germ prevention displays, located on end caps and near the pharmacy, for quick access to products that will help you avoid the spread of viruses. And, of course, if you or somebody you are caring for does get sick, our pharmacists and associates can help you with the medication and supplies you will need for treatment and comfort.

If you have been exposed to coronavirus or the flu, or if you prefer to use shopping options that help reduce contact with others, we encourage you to use our app to refill prescriptions online and receive texts when your prescription is ready. You can also shop RiteAid.com to have your health and wellness products delivered right to your door. Many Rite Aid locations provide drive-through pickup windows and/or prescription delivery. Contact information for your local store can be found on RiteAid.com. And if you are not already a member of RiteAid’s free wellness+ rewards program, we encourage you to sign up to receive digital updates on COVID-19, in addition to a variety of other valuable benefits.

At the corporate level, Rite Aid is communicating frequently and directly with our stores and associates to issue updated guidance and information. Our senior leadership team is actively engaged on a daily basis and we have formed an enterprise-wide task force to help manage this rapidly evolving situation. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take actions to protect our customers and associates. We encourage you to visit the CDC website for up-to-date information and facts on COVID-19.

As always, if you have any questions about your medications or care, healthcare professionals and pharmacists are available 24/7 at 1-800-Rite Aid or through a live chat on RiteAid.com.

Sam’s Club COVID-19 Update

* 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 Sam’s Club coronavirus update page.

March 19

Message to Sam’s Club Associates from Kath McLay, CEO of Sam’s Club

The messages have been pouring in from our members. In the face of these extraordinary times, you are serving them in ways we would never have imagined just a few short weeks ago.

“I was there on a busy day when the public was beginning to panic and stock up due to coronavirus,” one member from Saginaw, Mich., recently wrote. “Everyone was calm, patient and friendly. I appreciated the entire experience as a lesson in humanity.”

When I read words like that, I am so proud to be on your team. Because of your passion and relentlessness, we are taking care of our members in everyday and heroic ways. We are giving our members a reliable, critical service when they need it most. Your commitment is making a difference. Thank you.

But this effort is not without challenges. You and your families have had to adjust as schools and daycares have closed around the country.

We are so grateful for all your hard work and sacrifices, and today we are announcing several initiatives to reward and support you:

First, hourly associates who work in stores, clubs, our supply chain, and corporate offices will receive a special bonus on April 2. Full-time associates will receive $300, and part-time associates will receive $150. Every hourly associate employed by the company as of March 1 and still employed as of March 24 will qualify.

Second, we will prepay a portion of our upcoming Q1 SamShare bonuses, so that you will receive money in late April. We will pay those bonuses as if the company achieved its first quarter plan. At the regularly scheduled time for bonus payout in May, that amount may increase based on your club’s performance. You will receive more details on this tomorrow. We really want to support you with a portion of the bonus early.

Third, today Walmart and Sam’s Club are announcing plans to hire 150,000 new associates to work in our stores, clubs, and fulfillment centers, to help support you as you deal with the current level of demand. We are working to temporarily reduce our usual two-week application process to onboard associates more quickly. If you know individuals who need work and would make great additions to the Sam’s Club team, please encourage them to apply through https://careers.walmart.com.

Sams Club Hiring Announcement

This is in addition to our announcement yesterday that we are providing time for field associates in clubs, distribution centers and fulfillment centers to shop before regular club hours tomorrow morning from 6-8 a.m. We know that you have been busy serving our members, and we want to ensure that you have time to take care of you and your loved ones’ personal shopping needs.

For more information about these announcements and other coronavirus issues including our associate leave policy, please visit www.walmart.com/coronavirus

So, Sam’s Club associates, thank you. Thank you for these last few weeks. Thank you for the weeks to come. Thank you for the things you do that go unnoticed. Thank you.

This pandemic will pass. Things will go back to normal. But we will never forget that our associates were among the heroes who got us through.

Sincerely,
Kath McLay
Chief Executive Officer, Sam’s Club


March 15

New club hours and how we’re prioritizing members:

To our members and friends, we want to take a minute and thank you for your business and your patience these last few weeks. You are the reason we do what we do, and it is a pleasure to serve you every day.

We want to let you know that, starting Tuesday, 3/17 we are shifting all club opening hours to 9 am – 8 pm, Monday – Saturday. This is to ensure our associates have ample time to restock, clean and sanitize each club, and to provide you the best possible experience. Our Sunday hours will remain 10 am – 6 pm. Prescheduled Club Pickup orders will still be available for pickup starting at 7am.

It’s an unprecedented time for all of us and we know we have had out-of-stock items in our clubs. We continue to work around the clock to restock those items as we know it’s so important to get you and your families the things you came in for. That’s why we may also periodically limit the quantity on certain items per member – to ensure more people have access to the products they need.

If you’re experiencing long lines, we encourage you to use our patented Scan & Go feature in our Sam’s Club app. Simply scan your items with your phone, add them to your cart, and skip the checkout line altogether.

You are our #1 priority, and we will do whatever it takes to make sure your experience at Sam’s Club is a safe one. We hope to continue to be a helping hand as we navigate these uncharted waters together. Thank you for your continued trust, loyalty and patience.


March 11

Editor’s note: Kath McLay, President and CEO –Sam’s Club, sent the following note to all members.

An update regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) for our members:

Thank you for being a valued Sam’s Club Member. You’re the reason we do what we do, so I wanted to personally reach out to you regarding the current coronavirus situation. As I’m sure you’ve seen, there continues to be an influx of new information each day. So I appreciate the chance to update you on what we’re doing right now at Sam’s Club to protect you and your family.

1. Your Safety

First, I want to assure you that your safety and the safety of all of our members and associates remain our top priority. And that means you can shop us with confidence. Here are some of the measures we’ve taken in recent days

  • We’ve gone back and reinforced our industry-leading practices and policies regarding how we clean our clubs. Our goal – in this time and always – is to ensure a clean, safe, and sanitary environment, and our associates are exceeding the guidelines for cleanliness set in place by the CDC.
  • We’ve increased the frequency of our cleaning assignments, particularly in the restrooms, café, and drinking fountains.
  • We are wiping down our shopping carts with disinfectant after every use.
  • We have worked with our demo partners to enhance our already rigorous safety and sanitation guidelines.
  • We are posting hand sanitizer at every entrance and exit, and at designated registers.
  • We’re providing our associates up-to-date information to keep them – and their families – informed, aware and protected throughout this situation.

2. Out-of-Stock Items

We are seeing increasing numbers of shoppers in our clubs, and certain items like paper products and cleaning supplies are in high demand. Please know we are working to replenish these items as fast as humanly possible. We’ll continue to work night and day to get these products to you.

3. Skip the checkout line by using our app

If you haven’t tried it yet, now is a great time to check out our Scan & Go in the Sam’s Club app. Simply scan each item as you put it in the cart, and then walk straight to the exit. No checkout lines. And of course, as always, we offer delivery to home and pick-up in club via the app as well.

Thank you for your patience and trust in us, and for being the heart of our business. You are the reason that 100,000 Sam’s Club associates come to work each day. I promise that we will work harder than ever during this time to earn (and keep) that trust, and to live up to our rallying cry of delivering something special to you on every visit.

Sincerely,
Kath McLay
Chief Executive Officer, Sam’s Club

Save-A-Lot COVID-19 Update

* 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 Save-A-Lot Community Updates update page.

March 22

Valued Save A Lot Customers:

Over the last few days, many states and communities where we operate have issued “shelter-in-place” or “stay at home” orders. We respect and endorse these orders as a way to help manage and contain the spread of COVID-19. 

As a grocer, Save A Lot is an essential business and remains open to serve you. Our dedicated teams are working hard to refill our shelves quickly with the products you need and to ensure a safe shopping experience for you and your loved ones. Be sure to check our website for current operating hours at your local store, as these may have changed to allow our teams time to stock and clean as needed.

Your health and wellbeing is important to us, and so we remind you of the actions we’re taking in our stores to keep you safe:

Two Carts Apart. To ensure the health and wellbeing of everyone in our stores, we ask customers to be mindful of social distancing recommendations. We encourage you to keep two cart lengths between you and other shoppers while in the store and at the checkout.

Special Shopping Hours. In many Save A Lot locations, we have dedicated a priority shopping hour for our senior customers, customers with disabilities and their caregivers. Please check your local store for participating times.

Store Safety & Cleanliness. As we shared before, we’ve increased the frequency of cleaning surfaces throughout our store to protect the health and well-being of our teams and our customers. 

Care for Our Teams. Taking care of our people remains a top priority. We’ve given guidance and support to our team members to stay well and have an excellent support system should they feel unwell. It goes without saying that if a staff member feels poorly, they will be recovering at home in line with CDC recommendations. We’re especially proud of our team and particularly grateful for their recent efforts. Their energy and commitment to serving you is special

Thank you for your continued business and for being a loyal Save A Lot customer. We look forward to seeing you in our stores.

Please be safe!


March 15

While the impact of the COVID-19 situation changes every day, Save A Lot is committed to doing everything we can to serve you well.

We know that it’s a time of uncertainty and great stress for all of us. As your neighborhood grocer, our aim is to provide you with confidence and the certainty that we are here for you and committed to do our part in helping you through this.

We want to continue to be a reliable destination for the food and supplies you need for your family. There is no question that our stores are being shopped hard and some items are in short supply. Rest assured that our stores, retail partners, distribution system and suppliers are taking an all-hands-on-deck approach to replenish important items quickly so that we can continue to provide the high-quality food and outstanding value you expect from us. 

We wanted to share a few updates on our plans to continue to serve you in the coming days and weeks.

Reduced hours. With the increased demand in our stores, we will be adjusting our opening hours in some locations to allow our teams time to clean and restock as needed. We apologize for this inconvenience but believe it will ultimately allow us to better serve you. Check your local store for details.

Item Limits. While we have limited quantities of some items, we are working to restock daily. We also ask for your help in ensuring every customer has access to needed essentials. We’ve placed temporary limits on some items and appreciate your understanding. More information will be available at the point of purchase at your local store.

Store Safety & Cleanliness. As we shared before, we’ve increased the frequency of cleaning surfaces throughout our store to protect the health and well-being of our teams and our customers. 

Care for Our Teams. Taking care of our people remains a top priority. We’ve given guidance and support to our team members to stay well and have an excellent support system should they feel unwell. It goes without saying that if a staff member feels poorly, they will be recovering at home in line with CDC recommendations. We’re especially proud of our team and particularly grateful for their recent efforts. Their energy and commitment to serving you is special.

Thank you for your continued understanding and especially for being a loyal Save A Lot customer. We recognize that you place your trust in us and that you rely on us for the essentials you and your families need. We don’t take this responsibility lightly.

As always, if you have any question or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to our Customer Care line at (888) 725-4537.

Stay healthy!


March 9

With awareness about coronavirus (COVID-19) increasing, we know many of our customers are thinking about ways they can take action to stay safe and healthy. As your neighborhood grocery store, we wanted to share more information directly with you about the steps we’re taking to help keep you, our team members and the neighborhoods we serve safe and healthy.

In support of our commitment to high standards in our everyday business, our team members are already trained on food safety best practices. We have asked team members to increase their frequency of handwashing and use of hand sanitizer. We are also adding more regular cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces in our stores, like our bagging stations or checkout lanes. Most importantly, we are ensuring team members have the information they need to stay healthy or stay home if they are sick.

We are confident in the processes in place, and we remain open for business to serve you. Although we are experiencing high demand for products like hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes, we are working hard to resupply these items quickly. Where we do have product available, we are putting in place a temporary limit on some of these items to ensure we can meet the needs of all our customers. More information will be available at the point of purchase at your local store.

While the impact of this virus changes every day, we are committed to doing everything we can to continue to protect the health and safety of our customers and team members. We are monitoring the situation carefully and using the advice of organizations like the CDC as well as government and public health officials to inform our actions. 

In line with our community first approach, our hearts go out to all those who have been affected.

Thank you for being a loyal Save A Lot customer. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to our Customer Care line at (888) 725-4537.

Shop ‘n Save COVID-19 Update

* 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 Shop ‘n Save coronavirus update page.

From the Independent Owners and Operators at SHOP ‘n SAVE:

Dear Valued Customer

Over the years, SHOP ‘n SAVE retailers have cultivated strong connections in each and every one of the communities we serve – we care deeply about the safety of our customers and have always emphasized consumer well-being as our top priority. Now more than ever, we’re committed to providing access to essential products at affordable prices.

For that reason, we want you to know that SHOP ‘n SAVE is taking proactive precautions to keep our employees, customers and communities safe in the wake of COVID-19 by activating measures that address supply, sanitation and delivery.

Addressing Supply Demand

As levels of demand surge, we’re working with manufacturers and suppliers to meet customer needs. Please be aware that SHOP ‘n SAVE may choose to place a quantity limit on in-demand products to ensure all consumers have better access to the goods they need as events unfold. SHOP ‘n SAVE will continue to adjust supply purchases as necessary to provide customers with the highest level of care.

In-Store Sanitation

When it comes to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment, SHOP ‘n SAVE already requires comprehensive and effective sanitizing techniques to keep each location clean. Employees are asked to completely disinfect high customer touchpoint areas for further cleanliness. We’ll continue to thoroughly wipe down food service counters and follow regulations for safe food handling as usual. SHOP ‘n SAVE encourages all customers and employees to wash their hands and follow all other CDC guidelines for preventing illness both in-store and at home.

Instacart Delivery and Pickup

Several SHOP ‘n SAVE locations offer Instacart Delivery and Pickup services for customers who wish to purchase their groceries online. Instacart is now also offering a new “Leave at My Door Delivery” feature that allows customers to choose how they’d prefer to receive their groceries. Please visit shop.shopnsavefood.com to find the delivery options closest to your community.

We appreciate your patience and understanding during this unique event. As always, SHOP ‘n SAVE is dedicated to delivering the highest level of service to our customers as possible. We thank you for being a valued part of the SHOP ‘n SAVE community and assure you that we’re doing everything we can to meet your needs – today and every day.

ShopRite COVID-19 Update

* 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 ShopRite coronavirus update page.

Important Customer Update: Information Regarding Product Availability and Store Operations

At ShopRite, we are continually monitoring information pertaining to the coronavirus outbreak and how it is affecting our communities and our stores’ ability to serve you.

Here’s what you need to know:

Safety:

Our highest priority continues to be the safety and well-being of our Associates and customers. When it comes to your safety, ShopRite has cultivated an environment of exceptional food safety standards that meet local and state requirements and industry best practices.  

  • We have stepped up our rigorous protocols and remain vigilant about regular cleaning and sanitizing of food contact surfaces as well as cleaning restrooms and public areas with a special focus on checkout stations and conveyor belts, credit card keypads and other surfaces regularly handled by customers.
  • Our Associates are trained to follow proper hand washing practices and we advise associates who feel ill to remain home.
  • With your safety in mind, we have suspended in-store events and product sampling programs.

Product Availability:

Like all retailers, we are in short supply of many items that are in high demand right now.  As a result, we have begun limiting the number of items you can purchase in the following categories to two (2) per category:

  • Disinfectant cleaners and wipes
  • Paper products
  • Bar and liquid soaps
  • Cough/cold/flu over-the-counter medicines
  • Fresh meat
  • Eggs

Other key categories are now limited to a purchase of two. Since timing of product deliveries and in-store inventory can change rapidly, product limits are subject to change at the store manager’s discretion. We’re working with our suppliers to keep these items on the shelf for you and we appreciate your cooperation in limiting your purchases so that everyone can get the products they need.  Click here for a list of items. If you order more than the allocated quantity, your order will be modified.

Our site does not reflect current product inventory.  Your items will be selected for you on the day of the order, products are not “reserved” at the time your order is placed.

Sign up to receive order updates and out of stock product alerts by texting SRFH to 20669. This will be the only means of communication at this time, we will not be offering substitutions 

ShopRite from Home:  

The demand for online shopping services is at an all-time high. In response to the increased demand we have:

  • Added capacity to respond to increased traffic on the website and encourage customers to use our mobile app.
  • Implemented “drop at your door” service for delivery orders. Your driver will call or text you when they are on their way to make your delivery and your groceries will be left at your door unattended. (Provide your mobile phone number in the Delivery Instructions field at checkout when placing delivery orders.) Note, payment options may have changed to accommodate this service.

Our in-store shoppers are doing their best to fill your online orders accurately and on time. Please be patient and understanding as we try our best to serve you.

Store Hours and Operations:

Our stores remain open for business. Some stores may be operating on modified schedules based on product deliveries and the need to restock shelves and allow for additional cleaning.

Although we do not anticipate service disruptions, at this time, any information regarding operations will be posted to our website and local social media pages.

Our warehouse and distribution teams are operating around the clock, making deliveries seven days per week, to get product to the stores. Associates are working tirelessly to replenish shelves as quickly as possible.

Communicating with Our Customers:

We are working hard to keep you informed of how we are adjusting our operations and services to ensure we can continue to serve our communities to the best of our ability.

Social Media – Please check your local ShopRite Facebook page for up-to-date information on our store operations, product availability and other information that might affect our ability to serve you.

ShopRite.com – Important notifications and information will be posted to our website.

1-800-ShopRite – Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 8 am to 6 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm.  Our current call volumes and wait times are extremely high.  We are doing our best to get to your call.  If you’re calling for non-critical services, such as requests for circulars and similar inquiries, please submit your comments via email on the contact us page at shoprite.com.  

All of us at ShopRite deeply appreciate your patience and understanding and want you to know that we are here and ready to help during this difficult time.  We hope and pray that you and your family remain safe and well.

Food Bazaar COVID-19 Update

* 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 Food Bazaar News and Events page.

A Letter From Food Bazaar President Spencer An

Dear Customers:

The safety and well-being of our customers, employees and vendors is very important to us. We want to let you know that we are closely following the direction of our city and state health officials regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We will continue to follow their expert advice in order to provide a safe environment for everyone in our stores.

Food Bazaar regularly adheres to food safety standards that meet local and state requirements and industry best practices. As a supermarket that welcomes thousands of customers weekly, we have rigorous cleaning practices in place and are continuously providing reminders about good hygiene practices to our employees. We will continue to assess this quickly evolving situation and are here to assist our customers as needed. If you have any further questions about our efforts, we welcome you to call our Food Bazaar Customer Service Hotline at 1-800-553-8341.

Our stores are extra busy and checkout lines are longer than usual. Please be patient with us and with each other as we try our best to keep the shelves stocked, the lines moving and the stores clean. If you would prefer to get your groceries delivered to you at home, please visit Shop.FoodBazaar.com (Instacart will deliver your Food Bazaar groceries).

For additional information about the Coronavirus, visit the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) website. https://www.cdc.gov

We truly appreciate your help and understanding during this trying time and ask that we all practice kindness and tolerance towards all our fellow human beings. We are all in this together.

Sincerely,

Spencer An

President, Food Bazaar Supermarket

Fairway Markets COVID-19 Update

* 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 Fairway Market press releases page.

Letter from the CEO Abel Porter:

To our valued customers,

We want to personally thank you for trusting Fairway as your food shopping destination. In these uncertain times, we want to assure you that our doors are open and we are continuing to follow all New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, CDC and WHO regulations regarding health and sanitation.

We are closely monitoring developments surrounding Coronavirus (COVID-19). The safety and wellbeing of our employees and customers is our highest priority and we want to  inform you that we are taking steps and precautions to keep our associates informed and ensure your shopping experience is safe and pleasant.

Here are some of the steps we are taking to help protect the health of our employees and customers:

  • We have increased the frequency in which we sanitize high traffic areas and all surfaces.
  • We’ve enhanced deep cleaning each night at all locations.
  • We’re following CDC best practices for food preparation.
  • We are following NYC guidelines in our restaurant and cafes including the recommendation to have guests occupy only 50% of available dining space to help maintain “social distance.”
  • We’re reinforcing and continuously communicating our employee handwashing standards.
  • Employees are being asked to stay home and use sick time if they aren’t feeling well.
  • Our 74th Street Café is closed until further notice. You can still order for delivery via Grubhub.
  • The Cooking Place our cooking school has cancelled all classes until further notice

As the situation evolves, we’ll continue to provide updates. Thank you for your trust and continued support as we strive to provide the best service for you during this time.

 

Sincerely,

Abel Porter, Chief Executive Officer

Stew Leonard’s COVID-19 Update

* 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 Stew Leonard Daily News update page.

Dear friends and shoppers,

Here at Stew’s, we are working hard to keep creating happy customers during the coronavirus pandemic. We couldn’t keep our stores open without our more than 3,000 Team Members who are restocking the shelves and making sure our customers leave Stew Leonard’s with a smile.

In some ways, though, we’ve had to change the way we do business in order to serve you better during this time, including cancelling our in-store demos as well as many events that we know your family was looking forward to, including our annual Easter Egg Hunts. But during this difficult time, we’ve also seen a lot of great acts of kindness in each of the communities we serve, and we’d like to thank the first responders, the hospital workers, and others who are working tirelessly to keep us safe and healthy.

Things are changing rapidly, so our team is doing its best to update this page and our social media channels with all the information you’ll need to know about shopping at Stew Leonard’s.

On behalf of the Leonard family and all of us here at Stew’s, we wish you and your family good health.

See you in the store! – Stew


March 23

Starting tonight, March 23, all Stew Leonard’s stores will close at 8 p.m. every day.

This week, Stew Leonard’s will extend a $2/hour appreciation pay to our Team Members who are tirelessly working to keep our shelves stocked and our customers happy.

NEW RETURN POLICY

We Want to Keep Our Shoppers and Team Members Healthy! To help combat the spread of coronavirus, Stew Leonard’s must temporarily suspend our return, refund, and rain-check policies until further notice.

This change was recommended by our state and local health departments.

If you purchased a fresh product that was spoiled, please bring in your receipt or the product label to our customer service desk and request a refund. Please do not bring any spoiled products back into the store. Our Team Members have been instructed to wear gloves while handling receipts and labels.

All sales are now final.

EARLY OPENING FOR SENIORS

Stew Leonard’s will open one hour early each day to allow our most vulnerable shoppers – seniors and those with vulnerable immune systems – to shop in a less crowded environment. If you are under 60 or in good health, please wait until regular store opening times before coming to shop at Stew’s.

TO FURTHER PROTECT YOUR HEALTH, STEW LEONARD’S HAS:

  • Cancelled all in-store demos
  • Set product limits when necessary on items like water, pasta, toilet paper, butter and milk. Please see in-store signage for details.
  • Eliminated all self-serve areas, including our hot/cold bar, olive bar, and bagel bins. The items from these areas have been freshly pre-packaged by our Team Members
  • Placing our cashiers on every-other register so that they and our shoppers have some space between them.

To help keep both our customers and our Team Members healthy, we are asking customers to please do the following:

  • Give fellow shoppers some distance while they are waiting in line or in the store. While at checkout, please remain at the end of the belt until the customer in front has cleared the register.
  • Respect Stew Leonard’s early shopping hour that is being reserved for the elderly, immunocompromised, and others with health conditions.
  • Shop for only what you and your family will need for one week at a time. There is no need to hoard groceries as our supply chain is strong and we are getting frequent deliveries of product.

KEEP IT CLEAN! STEW’S TIPS FOR CLEANING YOUR RESUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS

It’s great for the environment when you use your reusable bags! But it’s also a good idea to clean them after each use to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses.

Here are Stew’s tips:

  • Canvas bags: wash on hot in the washing machine and throw them in the dryer. You’re done!
  • Recycled plastic bags & nylon bags: wash by hand in warm soapy water and then drip dry. Don’t forget to scrub the seams of the bags!
  • Insulated shopping bags: wipe them with a disinfecting wipe, especially if you’ve used them to transport raw meat.
  • Remember to store your reusable bags in a cool, dry place between uses.

THE STEPS THAT OUR TEAM TAKES EVERY DAY INCLUDE:

  • Clean and sanitize food contact surfaces every 1 hour.
  • Clean and sanitize our animation buttons, handrails, door handles, and phones every 2 hours.
  • Clean and sanitize our register belts, keypads, and pens at the registers every 2 hours and whenever customers request it.
  • Clean and sanitize or exchange all utensils used on any of our salad bars, olive bars, and bagel bins every 2 hours.
  • Provide Sani-wipes and hand sanitizer throughout our stores for customers and Team Members to use.
  • Continually monitor our salad bars for temperatures and cleanliness.

Stew Leonard’s management team is also in regular communication with our Team Members about steps that they should take throughout their workday to keep themselves and our shoppers healthy:

  • Team Members should thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds throughout their shift and change their gloves between tasks.
  • Cover your cough – but don’t cough into your hand! Use a tissue or the sleeve of your shirt
  • Stay home if you’re sick

Stop & Shop COVID-19 Update

* 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 Stop & Shop News & Media update page.

 

Dear customers,

As you may have heard, beginning tomorrow all Stop & Shop stores will open early to service our most vulnerable customers from 6:00am – 7:30am daily. During those hours, we look forward to welcoming customers who are age 60 and over as well as customers who may have weakened immune systems and are more susceptible to COVID-19.

There has been a great deal of interest in this effort across our communities. However, in order to ensure that we provide the best experience we can for these customers, here are some guidelines and information:

These hours are to help our more vulnerable customers shop in a less crowded environment, if they prefer.

We plan to make these hours available EVERY day during this period, so it’s not necessary for everyone to come on the first day. This could result in large crowds, the very situation we are looking to prevent as it will make it more difficult for customers to practice social distancing.

While we recognize we may be experiencing product shortages in some areas, our stores receive deliveries throughout the day so our shelves will be replenished for shoppers at all hours. We are making our best efforts to have products available across high-demand categories throughout the day.

Stop & Shop has implemented added cleaning and sanitation efforts, which will continue throughout the day at all stores.

Finally, when you shop for your family, be sure to keep other families in mind. Shop responsibly and buy just what you need.

We hope you will join us in our efforts to care for the older members of our community and those who are most vulnerable at this time. We are also thankful to be able to continue to serve all members of our communities, and we appreciate your support in making this initiative a success.

Sincerely,
Gordon Reid


March 16

Caring for Our Neighbors: New Store Hours for Customers 60 and Older

Now, more than ever, it’s important we come together as a community to support each other during challenging times. Part of that is showing compassion and care for some of our neighbors who are most vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus. According to the CDC, that is members of the population who are age 60 and older.

To support this group, beginning Thursday, March 19th, all Stop & Shop stores will open earlier in order to service only customers who are age 60 and over from 6:00a.m.-7:30a.m. daily.

We’re making the decision to offer this every day of the week to allow for community members in this age category to shop in a less crowded environment, which better enables social distancing. They’ll also be shopping prior to any other customers entering.

Beginning Thursday, people ages 60 and up can use a designated entrance, which will be marked at their local store, from 6:00a.m.-7:30a.m. Although we will not be requesting ID for entry, we ask that you please respect the purpose of the early opening – and do the right thing for your neighbors. Store associates do reserve the right to ask customers to leave if they are not a member of this age group.

As previously announced, most stores have adjusted their hours to 7:30a.m. to 8:00p.m. to enable our associates to spend more time unloading deliveries, stocking shelves – and to take some time for rest. Please note that our stores receive deliveries throughout the day, so our shelves will be replenished for shoppers at all hours. And, we have implemented added cleaning and sanitation efforts, which will continue throughout the day at all stores.

Our home delivery service will remain available to all customers as well. If you have a grandparent, parent, friend, or neighbor in this age group, remember you can place an order on their behalf with our new “Contact-Free” delivery option. With this service, we’ll notify you by text or email when the driver arrives, and they will simply leave the bags on the doorstep or building entry and return to their vehicle. We recognize there may be some delays with this service due to unprecedented demand, and we are continuing to work hard to meet your needs.

We hope you will join us in our efforts to care for the older members of our community at this time, and we are very grateful for your continued support.


March 14

As we continue to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our customers and associates and do our very best to meet customers’ shopping needs, we want to provide you with a few important updates regarding our store hours and Stop & Shop Delivery & Pickup.

All Stop & Shop store locations remain open and while we – like all retailers – are experiencing some shortages, we are doing everything possible to get products to our stores and to restock the shelves in every community. We greatly appreciate your patience and understanding as our teams continue to work hard to do so.

The following are some key updates we’d like you to know about:

Updated Store Hours

In order to allow more time for our associates to unload deliveries, stock shelves, and better serve you throughout the day, we are adjusting our hours to 7:30a.m.-8:00p.m. at most stores beginning Monday, March 16, until further notice. (There may be some exceptions. Please visit your local store location for details. New hours will also be posted on our website Monday.)

Pickup Services Temporarily Suspended

As a result of unprecedented demand as well as product shortages in some areas, we have temporarily suspended our online pickup service until further notice. Our store associates will instead focus on stocking product and other key priorities that will better meet the needs of all customers at this time. The service will be made available again once product availability increases.

Delays with Home Delivery

We recognize that online shoppers may be experiencing delays on our website as well as with our delivery times. This is again due to extremely high demand, and our teams are working incredibly hard to ensure the site is running smoothly so that you can continue to receive orders when you need them.

Stop & Shop is continuing to maintain high levels of hygiene and sanitation in its stores and online operations. We’re also taking additional measures during this time, which include wiping down checkout areas including the belts and pin pads with disinfectant even more frequently. We will continue to follow guidance from the CDC to help keep our customers and associates safe.

Our deepest thanks for continuing to support us, and we will continue to provide timely updates on our services and hours in the coming weeks.


March 10

Customer FAQs

What are you doing to keep your stores clean and safe?

Stop & Shop has amplified its cleaning and sanitizing efforts to ensure you can shop with confidence.

Upon entering all our stores, disinfecting wipes are available near the entrance, and customers are welcome to wipe down carts, hand baskets, and ScanIt! devices before use.

Our associates are frequently wiping down self-service locations and checkout areas with disinfectant. This includes the belts and pin pads at our registers.

We have suspended our food sampling programs, in-store events, as well as community solicitation until further notice.

Are you taking any precautions with your associates?

We are providing them with updated direction and guidance from the CDC and local health officials on healthy workplace habits, and we are working to ensure our associates have items like disinfecting wipes, gloves and hand sanitizers to use at work to help keep themselves and customers healthy. In addition, associates are conducting regular handwashing every 20-30 minutes. Stop & Shop is encouraging all associates who don’t feel well to stay at home.

Are you experiencing a shortage of products? Is there an item limit?

Stop & Shop is seeing increased sales on items like hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes, Lysol sprays, bleach, antibacterial soap and other cleaning products. We’re working diligently along with our suppliers to keep these high-demand products in stock.

Stop & Shop has placed a purchase limit on high-demand items such as hand sanitizer and Lysol wipes in stores as well as online, though the items may vary by location. The current limit is 5 items per customer.

My community group’s solicitation was canceled, why?

Out of an abundance of caution, all community group solicitation has been canceled until further notice as we continue to prioritize the health and safety of our customers and associates.

There are no in-store events or sampling, why?

All in-store events and food sampling have been canceled until further notice as we continue to prioritize the health and safety of our customers and associates.

What precautions are being taken at the Pharmacy?

At all pharmacies, our associates are wiping down the pharmacy counters and pin pads even more frequently with disinfectant. Our pharmacy associates are also conducting handwashing at more frequent intervals as well as using hand sanitizer on a regular basis. Additionally, all pharmacy patrons are encouraged, as always, to remain behind the privacy line until the customer ahead of them has left the area.

What precautions are being taken for home delivery?

Our home delivery facilities and drivers are taking additional measures to promote cleanliness through regular handwashing and use of hand sanitizer, per CDC guidance.

Stop & Shop’s home delivery customers can now request an “unattended delivery.” This means that the driver will drop your order on your front step, ring the doorbell, then depart. This can be requested under special instructions at checkout or by e-mailing [email protected].

What precautions are being taken for pickup?

Our pickup associates are following all of the same sanitizing precautions including surface sanitization and regular hand washing every 20-30 minutes.

Eddie’s of Roland Park COVID-19 Update

* 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 Eddie’s of Roland Park “Our Promise” page.

“Those businesses that are essential to society and community, including grocery stores… should remain open.

— Governor Larry Hogan

In this spirit—and as is our tradition—Eddie’s of Roland Park will continue operating regular store hours (7am-8pm Monday through Saturday, and 8am-7pm on Sunday) while monitoring/maintaining our stock levels as best we can, and modifying our processes in keeping with CDC and state/local guidance to ensure the continuity of safe and reliable operations.

To our employees, customers, and vendors/partners—your health and safety is of primary importance of us, and we appreciate you considering public health and practicing good judgement when planning your visit. Likewise, please be assured that Eddie’s of Roland Park is upholding long-established best practices for safe food service, while taking additional, precautionary measures to reinforce germ prevention, including:

  • Increasing the frequency of cleaning/sanitizing common contact surfaces and self-service utensils;
  • Working to ensure availability of gloves, hand soap, sanitizers and cleaning products in back of house areas, at entrance/checkout, and visitor restrooms;
  • Offering “social distance customer assistance” through our personal shopping and delivery services;
  • Limiting the number of customers inside the store at one time in order to provide increased space for social distancing;
  • Enabling/encouraging store employees to stay home or leave work if they are experiencing any signs of sickness;
  • Informing and communicating with employees regarding the most up-to-date health and safety recommendations;
  • Offering packaged salad, soup, olive and candy options as a convenient alternative while our self-serve salad bar, soup bar, olive bar and bulk candy displays are on hiatus;
  • Temporarily suspending ALL store events, including book signings, wine tastings, passive/active sampling and vendor demos;
  • We reserve the right to limit quantities.

We appreciate your partnership and patronage, and welcome you to contact us with any questions or if we can be of additional service during this time.