* 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 Big Y COVID-19 update page.
Adjusted Store Hours
Effective Friday, March 20 all Big Y Express Locations hours will be 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. until further notice.
Effective Thursday, March 19, all Big Y stores will reserve the hours of 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. for customers who are 60 and older or have compromised immune systems.
Regular store hours are now 8 AM to 8 PM until further notice. This will give store teams time to conduct additional preventive sanitation and restock product on shelves. These are just some of the extra measures Big Y is taking across our entire operation to safeguard the health and well-being of our customers, our associates, and our communities.
On March 20, as a thank you to their employees, Big Y Foods, Inc. announced that hourly employees will receive an extra $2.00 per hour starting Sunday, March 22 through Saturday, April 25, 2020. This includes all stores, the store support center, facilities, and distribution employees.
They also asked, for the benefit and safety of all customers and employees, that social distancing of 6 feet or more be utilized when in stores whenever possible.
On March 20, the retailer announced that, effective immediately, they would discontinue the administration of all vaccines until further notice.
Additionally, the retailer changed its policy on returns and refunds: “For health and wellness concerns, we are unable to accept product returns/refunds at this time. This will apply to purchases made on or after 3/10/2020.”
On March 19, the company announced: “Big Y Foods, Inc. is currently experiencing an understandably high volume of customer questions and media inquiries. Please know that we are focused on operations at this time and will be for the foreseeable future. Therefore, our direct communications must be much more focused and limited. The best places for updates are our social media channels and our website.
“As of today, we are focused on recovering from the buying surge of recent days and restocking our stores. In any category, customers might notice that only the higher priced or premium items are available. That is because all of the other items in that category have been purchased. We are, of course, working with our suppliers to restock all items that are currently out of stock or offered in limited supply. Everyone involved in the food supply chain is working extremely hard to replenish, resupply, and restock.
“Big Y is also working very hard to support food banks in each of our markets, and we will be providing information on those activities in the near future. We also have reserved the hours of 7 – 8 a.m. for customers 60 years old and older as well as people with compromised immune systems. We ask for the cooperation of all our other customers to help us offer this accommodation to those customers who might be most severely impacted by COVID-19.
“We wish to clearly state to the media and the public that, while items may continue to be out of stock at times, there is no overall food or product shortage. Our stores will continue to be restocked daily, and customers will notice more normal inventory availability overtime.
“Lastly, we wish to acknowledge the tremendous sacrifice of our employees who continue to serve our customers. They have families and worries as well, so we hope that their efforts will be recognized by those visiting our stores.
On March 16, Big Y said, “Due to unprecedented demand and ongoing supply disruptions, we will not be issuing rain checks until further notice.”
The same day, the retailer closed its Hot Bar, Wing Bar, Soup Bar and Olive Bar until further notice. Cold Soup and Olive Bar items, Pre-packaged Hot Tenders and Wings, Pre-packaged Hot Soup and Pre-packaged Hot Mac & Cheese are still available in grab and go containers for your convenience.
* 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 Whole Foods Market Company News page.
We believe our role serving customers and the community during this time is a critical one. We care about our team members, customers and products, and we’re evaluating the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in real-time. We will continue to update here about the actions Whole Foods Market is taking.
In addition to modifications to our prepared foods, self-serve and restaurant venues, we have implemented enhanced daily cleanliness and sanitation protocols across all stores and facilities, on top of our standard stringent protocols.
How we are adjusting operations in our stores:
We are operating under social distancing guidelines in our stores and facilities, ensuring that interaction between team members and among team members and customers can happen at the recommended distance.
We are closing stores up to two hours early to give our team members more time to restock shelves, sanitize our stores and rest in preparation for the next day.
All food and product sampling and demos have been suspended.
We have closed all hot bars, salad bars, soup bars and self-serve pizza counters.
Seated restaurant venues and taprooms are closed for in-store dining and will offer takeout only.
Indoor and outdoor café seating is temporarily unavailable.
Self-serve offerings are closed in additional departments, including antipasti and olive bars, acai machines and poke bowls.
We have increased the location and number of hand sanitizer stations available for use by shoppers and team members, including for shopping carts and checkout.
We are no longer allowing personal, reusable containers at our smoothie and coffee bars.
In order to serve more customers, we are limiting the purchase quantities of high-demand items.
To ensure the health and safety of our team members and customers during this critical time, we are suspending our current return policy and all sales are final unless there was a quality problem with the product at the time of purchase.
How we are serving our customers:
At Whole Foods Market stores, we’re adjusting our hours of operation to better serve our communities. Please check our store finder page for your store’s updated hours.
All Whole Foods Market stores will service customers who are 60+ years old (70+ years old U.K.) one hour before opening the store to the general public.
We are partnering with Amazon in expanding capacity to service more Prime Members with free, two-hour grocery delivery and door drop service from Whole Foods Market in more than 2,000 cities and towns.
We are also working to expand pickup to all markets under an accelerated time line.
Our team members are our top priority, and we’ve taken the following steps to support them during this time of uncertainty:
We have implemented enhanced daily cleanliness and sanitation protocols across all stores and facilities, on top of our standard stringent protocols.
We are operating under social distancing guidelines in our stores and facilities, ensuring that interaction among team members and between team members and customers can happen at a safe distance.
If they are unable or unwilling to work their scheduled shift, team members have unlimited call-outs during this time.
All part- and full-time hourly team members at Whole Foods Market stores and facilities in the U.S. and Canada are receiving an additional $2 per hour on top of their current hourly rate through the month of April. In the U.K., part-time and full-time team members in our stores and facilities will receive an additional 2£ per hour through the month of April.
All part- and full-time hourly team members at Whole Foods Market stores and facilities will receive double their regular hourly base rate of pay for every overtime hour worked in a workweek from March 16 through May 3, 2020. Enhanced overtime pay is something that Whole Foods Market activates during high-volume holidays, emergency situations or natural disasters.
All team members placed into quarantine or diagnosed with COVID-19 will receive up to an additional two weeks of paid time off, as announced by our parent company, Amazon.
Like our full-time team members, all part-time team members are eligible to accrue paid time off, which can be used at their discretion.
We have increased funds available through our Team Member Emergency Fund, which is available to all team members faced with an unforeseeable emergency or critical situation. Amazon has committed an additional $1.6M to support the fund, bringing the total to $3.34M. All additional donations to the fund will be matched 100% by Whole Foods Market.
We have asked team members to cancel nonessential business travel (both domestic and international).
Team members who have jobs based in our regional offices and global headquarters are empowered to choose to work from home if they are able.
While it is not currently recommended by the CDC, and the guidance is to preserve these resources for the medical community and those caring for the ill, any team member who wishes to wear a mask while working may do so.
We have additional shopping hours designated especially for team members to allow them to purchase the items they need.
* 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 Best Market Facebook page.
The NYC retailer Best Market has instituted the following changes in its stores:
The limit on the number of shoppers in stores is being enforced in order to adhere to the CDC’s personal space recommendations.
Store hours are limited to 8:00 am. to 8:00 p.m. so Best Market can restock and complete enhanced sanitation procedures.
Asking everyone to adhere to the 6-foot personal distance policy, both in and outside the stores.
* This is a living document that will be updated on a regular basis until it is no longer needed.
March 24, 2020
To our Customers, Suppliers and Colleagues;
These are unprecedented times, as always, our focus is on what matters most, the health and safety of our associates, customers, suppliers and our community.As we collectively deal with today’s uncertainties, I wanted to take a few minutes to share with you some of the things that we are doing at Winholt.
As an essential business, providing equipment that supports supermarkets, foodservice/restaurants, retailers, and health care industries, Winholt is focused on keeping our associates healthy, while supporting our operations to service all of our customers, particularly many of our customers that are essential in this critical time across our country.
In line with our continuing operations, here are some of the actions we are taking for the safety of our Associates:
Requiring associates, wherever possible, to work remotely from home
Distributing hand sanitizer, gloves and mask where necessary
Increased cleaning frequency multiple times per day at all of our locations
Enforcing best practices from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Practicing social distancing within our facilities
Creating staggered lunch shifts, so we do not have large groups of associates together at one time
Our supply chain continues to function and our manufacturing facilities remain operational.We will continue to monitor the situation and will keep you informed as information becomes available.
We’re here, and we are committed to supporting you during this challenging time.
* 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 Balducci’s CEO Update and FAQs page.
March 19
Message from the CEO of Balducci’s 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 Balducci’s 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. Adjusted store hours are https://www.balduccis.com/locations. Quick reminder: our cashiers can type in your myBalduccis loyalty 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 currently 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 (Hours vary by store so please check HERE) 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 through delivery.balduccis.com
Supporting the health and welfare of our communities is now more important than ever. We’re launching the Feeding America Food Banks Check-Out Hunger campaign, where you can donate $1, $3 and $5; and 100% of your donations will benefit our local food banks including the Capital Area Food Bank, Connecticut Food Bank and Feeding Westchester.
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, 866.278.8866.
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.balduccis.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
BALDUCCI’S 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 Balducci’s 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. Beginning Sunday, March 22nd, we’re closing our stores earlier to give our team additional time to sanitize our stores and restock the shelves. Adjusted store hours are HERE. Please be advised that we’re dedicating our first hour of service 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 through balduccis.com/contact, or call (844) 259-3875.
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 myBalducci’s Gourmet Rewards?
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 for our elderly and high-risk guests. Check here for your local store hours.
Q: Do you offer grocery delivery?
A: We offer grocery delivery through our partner, Instacart at delivery.balduccis.com. 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 Amazon company blog.
March 13
A roundup of actions Amazon has taken to reduce the spread of the coronavirus while supporting those directly and indirectly impacted by COVID-19.
By Day One Staff
As a global company, we’re closely monitoring the impact of COVID-19. In addition to those who are affected by the illness, many more are indirectly dealing with changes in their work, school, and community environments. Read a message from our CEO and founder.
Here are some of the ways Amazon is supporting its customers, communities, and employees during this difficult time.
Serving our customers
We believe our role serving customers and the community during this time is a critical one. As COVID-19 has spread, we’ve seen an increase in people shopping online. To serve our customers while also helping to ensure the safety of our associates, we’ve changed our logistics, transportation, supply chain, purchasing, and third-party seller processes to prioritize stocking and delivering items that are a higher priority for our customers. This has resulted in some of our delivery promises being longer than usual. We are also hiring over 100,000 positions across the U.S. to enable us to provide this vital service to people everywhere, especially to those, like the elderly, who are most vulnerable. March 23, 2020
Our customers are counting on us like never before. At every level of our company, we’re working to provide the products and services that our customers and communities need as we face a global pandemic. This includes taking a number of important steps to keep prices fair and protect our customers from those looking to exploit the current crisis. Amazon has zero tolerance for price gouging and longstanding policies and systems to prevent this harmful practice. We’re working vigorously to combat price gouging. Read how. March 23, 2020.
While customers can continue to buy any in-stock product in our store, customers ordering items they don’t need immediately have the opportunity to help others by choosing No-Rush Shipping when this ship option is available. Selecting the No-Rush option enables us to consolidate orders and make fewer stops in neighborhoods throughout the week, and most importantly, serve customers with the most critical needs first. March 17, 2020.
We’re also working to ensure that no one artificially raises prices on basic need products during this pandemic and have blocked or removed tens of thousands of items, in line with our long-standing policy. We actively monitor our store and remove offers that violate our policy.
To protect customers shopping in our physical retail stores, we’ve enhanced our daily cleaning procedures and are implementing additional nightly cleaning. We continue to educate employees on CDC guidance for maintaining healthy habits, and are offering flexibility for employees who need to stay home, plus paid time off for those who are diagnosed with the virus.
Whole Foods Market is temporarily adjusting store hours to accommodate those identified as among the most vulnerable to COVID-19, according to health authorities. Customers who are age 60 and over in the U.S. and Canada, and age 70 and over in the UK, are invited to shop beginning one hour before the store opens to the general public under the store’s new adjusted hours (example: if a store’s new hours are 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., customers who are age 60 and over can shop starting at 8 a.m.). We are setting aside this time to help these customers feel more comfortable shopping our stores and to help ensure they are able to get the items they need in a less crowded environment. March 18, 2020.
Prime Now, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market delivery customers always have the option to select “unattended delivery” during checkout if they prefer not to come into contact with others. Orders not containing alcohol are eligible for unattended delivery, and will be left in a location specified by the customer.
Empowering our customers
In addition to serving our retail customers, we’re making sure Amazon Web Services customers have the tools and support they need to keep their businesses and organizations moving forward safely and efficiently.
We are launching the AWS Diagnostic Development Initiative—a program to support customers who are working to bring better, more accurate, diagnostics solutions to market faster and promote better collaboration across organizations that are working on similar problems. As part of this, we are committing an initial investment of $20 million to accelerate diagnostic research, innovation, and development to speed our collective understanding and detection of COVID-19 and other innovate diagnostic solutions to mitigate future infectious disease outbreaks. Funding will be provided through a combination of AWS in-kind credits and technical support to assist our customers’ research teams in harnessing the full potential of the cloud to tackle this challenge. The AWS Diagnostic Development Initiative begins with participation from 35 global research institutions, startups, and businesses focused on tackling this challenge. Read more. March 20, 2020.
Caring for our employees
We are opening 100,000 new full and part-time positions across the U.S. in our fulfillment centers and delivery network to meet the surge in demand from people relying on Amazon’s service during this stressful time, particularly those most vulnerable to being out in public. We also know many people have been economically impacted as jobs in areas like hospitality, restaurants, and travel are lost or furloughed as part of this crisis. We want those people to know we welcome them on our teams until things return to normal and their past employer is able to bring them back. In addition to the 100,000 new roles we’re creating, we want to recognize our employees who are playing an essential role for people at a time when many of the services that might normally be there to support them are closed. In the U.S., we will be adding an additional $2 USD per hour worked through April from our current rate of $15/hour or more, depending on the region, C$2 in Canada, £2 per hour in the UK, and approximately €2 per hour in many EU countries. This commitment to increased pay through the end of April represents an investment of over $350 million in increased compensation for hourly employees across the U.S., Europe, and Canada. Read more. March 16, 2020.
In light of ongoing international COVID-19 developments, we now recommend that all global employees who work in a role that can be done from home, do so through April 10. Every team is different and not all jobs are conducive to working from home. Employees and partners whose work requires their physical presence in their workplace, have access to all of their usual paid and unpaid time-off benefits.
All Amazon employees diagnosed with COVID-19 or placed into quarantine will receive up to two weeks of pay. This additional pay while away from work is to ensure employees have the time they need to return to good health without the worry of lost income. This is in addition to unlimited unpaid time off for all hourly employees through the end of March. Read more. March 11, 2020.
We are establishing the Amazon Relief Fund, with a $25 million initial contribution, focused on supporting our independent delivery service partners and their drivers, Amazon Flex participants, and seasonal employees under financial distress during this challenging time. We will be offering all of these groups the ability to apply for grants approximately equal to up to two weeks of pay if diagnosed with COVID-19 or placed into quarantine. Going forward, this fund will support our employees and contractors around the world who face financial hardships. Applicants may apply and receive a personal grant from the fund ranging from $400 to $5,000 per person. Read more. March 11, 2020.
We paused our fulfillment center public tours program, cancelled large events, and changed the majority of our job interviews to virtual interviews rather than in-person interviews, which often require travel. At the same time, we increased our cleaning of all facilities globally, including regular sanitization of all door handles, stairway handrails, elevator buttons, lockers, and touch screens. February 28, 2020.
Supporting our community
Amazon has donated $1 million to kick-start emergency COVID-19 response funds that will immediately benefit the four largest Washington D.C. region community foundations that are working to support vulnerable populations impacted amid the coronavirus outbreak. The donation will be used to provide resources to organizations working with communities disproportionately impacted by coronavirus and the economic consequences of the outbreak—including hourly workers, people experiencing homelessness, and the elderly. Amazon is also providing additional cash and in-kind support to five food service providers in the Washington D.C. region. Read more. March 18, 2020.
We created a $5 million Neighborhood Small Business Relief Fund to provide cash grants to Seattle-area small businesses that need assistance to get through economic challenges related to COVID-19. The fund is intended for businesses with fewer than 50 employees or less than $7 million in annual revenue. Businesses with a physical presence within a few blocks of Amazon’s office buildings in the Regrade and South Lake Union areas, that are open to the general public, and are reliant on foot traffic for customers, are eligible for the grants. Additionally, we are subsidizing two full months of rent for tenants in the buildings Amazon owns. Read more. March 10, 2020.
Amazon contributed $1 million to a new Seattle Foundation fund for community members affected by COVID-19. The fund will provide flexible resources to nonprofits and community-based organizations working with those who are disproportionately affected by the coronavirus and the economic consequences of the outbreak. Initial grants will support organizations helping those who don’t have sick leave or health insurance, medically fragile individuals, and healthcare workers. Read more. March 9, 2020.
We are continuing to pay all hourly staff who work for the service providers that support our offices around the world—from food-service workers to security guards to janitorial staff. March 6, 2020.
Now and always, our Amazon Future Engineer program is focused on increasing access to computer science education for hundreds of thousands of students and teachers. As classrooms across the U.S. experience educational disruption during the pandemic, Amazon Future Engineer will initially provide free access to our sponsored computer science courses in the United States. These courses are for independent learners from 6th to 12th grade, or teachers who are teaching remotely to this age group. Amazon Future Engineer will grant teachers and students access shortly after they complete their applications, which can be found at amazonfutureengineer.com. March 15, 2020.
We’re leveraging our fulfillment network to support nonprofits and relief organizations in the Puget Sound area that are on the front lines of the outbreak. We are donating gift cards and helping to purchase items on Amazon.com on behalf of the organizations who are time-strapped managing the crisis. Items donated in-kind from Amazon include baby food and wipes, school supplies, clothing, and hygiene products. This enables nonprofits and relief organizations to respond quickly to the changing and immediate needs of the community members.
We’ve also reached out to, and are helping, our communities around the globe. In China, for example, we leveraged our fulfillment network to donate millions of items—such as medical isolation suits, protective masks, disposable gloves, and other medical supplies—to healthcare professionals in affected cities.
* 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 Adams Fairacre Farms blog.
Given the continued news about the coronavirus (COVID-19), we wanted to let you know that Adams Fairacre Farms, based in Poughkeepsie, NY is closely monitoring local and national reports on the evolving impact of coronavirus (COVID-19), following the guidance we receive from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization and applicable public health agencies.
In response to customer requests and to help support our community members please note the additional steps that Adams has taken in response to coronavirus (COVID-19):
Temporary Change in Store Hours
We are changing our hours of operation to better serve our customers and communities. We have implemented special store hours for Seniors 60+ and for all individuals with high-risk health issues, Monday-Sunday from 7 a.m. – 8a.m. at all Adams stores. All other customers can shop regular store hours, Monday-Saturday from 8a.m.-8p.m. and Sunday 8a.m.-7p.m.
We have also temporarily:
Closed all Adams Café seating areas and are providing takeout only
Modified our hot bar and salad bars from self-serve to staff-served with packaged options
Modified our self-serve coffee station to Adams associate served
Increased customer signage in-store providing tips for safe food preparation and sanitation
Accommodated employees who are staying home to protect high-risk family members
Limiting the purchase of some high-demand products to help ensure availability for all our customers
Suspended our cookie and juice sampling during Customer Appreciate Night as well as in-store sampling. Customer Appreciate Night will still be ongoing.
How are you keeping up with supply and demand?
Because this is impacting the retail industry around the world, supply is limited and there are a number of pressures on the supply chain to keep up with demand. This, coupled with the high volume we’re seeing across all departments, is affecting what is available on our shelves. Know that we continue to receive shipments to our stores every day. Although we may not have every variety available, we are working hard to give our customers options in each category.
How is Adams Fairacre Farms addressing safety concerns regarding COVID-19?
Our housekeeping and sanitization efforts in our stores were greatly expanded since the initial (COVID-19) announcement. We’re frequently disinfecting often-touched surfaces such as door handles, countertops, keypads, restroom surfaces, baskets and power washing shopping carts. We’re asking all of our associates (and we urge everyone) to follow the CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of the infection.
As part of our everyday practices, we follow strict food safety and policies and procedures, above and beyond what is required of us to ensure a safe environment for all. We continue to reinforce employee education regarding viral prevention and encouraging them to stay home when they don’t feel well. Still, we are taking additional measures to help ensure the health and safety of our employees and customers.
As always, we are concerned about the health and safety of our customers and associates. You are our top priority and we will continue to listen to and address your concerns as we’re committed to doing our part to help keep our customers and employees safe. In addition, we are touched by the ways our customers, employees and vendors are working together in this difficult time. And a special thank you for the kindness the public has shown our associates.
* 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 Aldi COVID-19 update page.
On March 14, Aldi said it would be “keeping our stores open, clean and stocked is our highest priority.
“Our entire team – including a vast network of employees and partners, from our distribution centers to our drivers and store associates – are tirelessly working to ensure groceries are on shelves as quickly as possible.
“We are working with our suppliers to source as much additional product as we can to keep our distribution centers stocked.
“Some stores will be temporarily closed or have limited hours. At this time, we cannot provide specific location information. We appreciate you as our customer and continue to do what we can.”
On March 16, Aldi announced that stores across the country will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Some stores may have limited hours to accommodate restocking and cleaning.
Message from Aldi CEO Jason Hart:
Dear Customers,
At ALDI, we know you rely on us as your trusted neighborhood grocery store. We truly value your continued loyalty and I’d like to let you know how we are ensuring we meet your needs during this challenging time.
Our teams are working diligently to keep our shelves stocked and we are continuing to react to the Covid-19 situation. In the midst of increased demand and challenging supply, we are focused on the products you are likely to want most: water, pantry staples, pre-made meals, cleaning supplies, toilet paper and more. To support as many customers as possible, you may see quantity limits placed on select items. We appreciate your patience as some of these products may be temporarily unavailable in some of our stores.
To help maintain a clean and safe environment for you and our employees, we are intensifying cleaning practices at all of our stores, offices and warehouses. We have dedicated more time to sanitization procedures, focused on the most common touch points. As an ALDI customer, your shopping experience may look a little different as we continue to navigate this difficult situation and we thank you for your understanding.
We are thankful for the hard work and dedication of our team members each and every day. We are continuing to be in close communication with our team and are encouraging any sick team members to stay home. In addition, we are enhancing our sick leave policy to further support our employees and their families.
Again, thank you for being a loyal ALDI customer, and we look forward to continuing to serve you, your families and our communities.
Albertsons Companies today announced that the company has begun implementing Social Distancing protocols across all 2,200+ stores. The goal with the protocol throughout the store is to follow guidance from the CDC to prevent customers from being within 6 feet of any other person for more than 10 minutes. Customers should see changes continue over the next week.
“Social distancing can make a significant difference in our communities as we face this pandemic,” said Vivek Sankaran, President & CEO. “Our stores are following the guidance from the CDC with regard to regular hand washing and enhanced cleaning and sanitization protocols. We believe that the next step toward helping slow and contain the COVID-19 virus is by reinforcing proper social distancing whenever possible.”
The company is installing designated waiting points through floor markers positioned throughout the store, especially at check stands and stations where people most often congregate, like the service deli, bakeries, and pharmacy areas. Customers will also be asked to wait until the customer in front of them has finished collecting their groceries before unloading their groceries at the check stand.
“We have seen our customers begin to implement social distancing on their own with our ‘two carts apart’ reminders as they shop our stores, so we think our floor markers will increase awareness,” said Sankaran. “We know that with our customers’ help, along with other safety measures have implemented in our stores, we can create safer environments and help our communities contain the spread of this contagious disease.”
March 23
Throughout the country, businesses have been forced to close or scale back operations, furlough employees or reduce hours due to the COVID-19 crisis. Albertsons Companies is in a unique position to help and is partnering with major companies to provide part-time jobs to their employees who have been furloughed or had their hours cut.
“The most valuable asset and the core of any business is people, and we are working hard with many Human Resource teams across a variety of businesses who are actively defining next steps for their employees,” said President and CEO Vivek Sankaran. “So many businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors are scaling back hours or temporarily closing as their customers remain home and adhere to shelter-in-place orders. We are grateful to be a resource to help fill a critical need in our own business and take care of people who want to continue working during this time of national emergency.”
Supermarket companies are considered “critical infrastructure” according to the Federal Government and are required to operate during the crisis. To respond to that requirement, Albertsons Cos. is immediately hiring 30,000 new associates. The company fully understands and appreciates that most people will return to their previous jobs when the crisis is over, and the company and partner employers are fully supportive of the other’s efforts to keep people working.
Currently, Albertsons Cos. has secured partnerships with 17 companies, some of which include:
ASM Global
BJ’s Restaurants
G6 Hospitality
Hilton
Inspire Brands
Marriott International
MGM Resorts
Regal Cinemas
G6 Hospitality
Dedicated application sites have been established for employees from participating companies. The partner companies will provide links when they notify their employees about the opportunity for part-time employment with Albertsons Cos.
March 20
Albertsons Companies on March 20 announced an Appreciation Pay program to all non-union and union frontline associates. Structured to recognize the hard-working team members on the front lines, the company’s e-commerce pickers and drivers, store associates, distribution center associates and manufacturing plant associates will receive a temporary $2 per-hour-worked increase, above and beyond their regular hourly pay and overtime.
“In ways that we could not even imagine, overnight, our country changed – and as a result it changed the way our teams conduct business,” said Vivek Sankaran, president and CEO. “I am so proud to say our teams did not skip a step. In our manufacturing plants, distribution centers and in our stores, our associates are working tirelessly to serve our customers. They work every day to keep our communities fed, their pantries and medicine cabinets stocked, and to ensure one less worry on our customers’ minds as we all face this unprecedented pandemic.”
The temporary increase, which was requested by the company’s division presidents and supported by the board of directors and the company’s owners, including Cerberus Capital Management, is effective March 15, 2020 until at least the end of the following pay period on March 28, 2020 for approximately 230,000 Albertsons associates. The company will evaluate the situation on an ongoing basis and make changes as necessary.
“These times are unprecedented in the grocery industry,” commented Sankaran. “This simple ‘thank you’ doesn’t seem like quite enough – and we hope our sincere appreciation with this program is a start.”
Earlier, the company had announced that, as an added precaution during the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, Albertsons Companies is installing Plexiglas in its checkout lanes as a protective barrier between customers and checkers. The Plexiglas “sneeze guards” will be installed in the company’s 2,200+ stores over the next two weeks, with many locations being complete in the next several days.
“We recognize that we provide an essential service to our communities,” said Sankaran. “We are doing everything we can to provide a safe, secure, and comfortable shopping space for our valued customers. This is an extra step to protect our associates who are in constant contact with the public and provide our customers with extra reassurance as well.”
In addition to the installation of Plexiglas, the stores have taken a number of precautions, including:
Pausing self-service operations like soup bars, wing bars, and salad bars.
Enhancing measures to clean and disinfect all departments, restrooms, and other high-touch points of the store throughout the day, as well as a deep cleanse at the end of each business day. Cart wipes and hand sanitizer stations continue to be available at key locations within the store for customers’ convenience.
Asking associates to follow CDC guidelines, wash hands frequently, and stay home if they feel sick.
Reserving special times for seniors and other vulnerable shoppers who must leave home to obtain their groceries, unless otherwise locally mandated. The company is asking non-seniors and non-at-risk shoppers to avoid shopping at these times.
The company has also announced it will waive delivery fees for same-day and next-day deliveries, as well as for mail deliveries until May 1, 2020 to help customers have convenient access to their medications during the COVID-19 pandemic that is taking a toll on public health and safety.
“We are waiving prescription delivery fees to help our customers manage their medication needs during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, which can make it challenging for people to visit our stores,” said Mark Panzer, senior VP, Albertsons Companies Pharmacy Health and Wellness. “This step is in line with our mission at Albertsons Companies to take care of our patients, help them achieve their health and wellness goals, and secure the best care available.”
“Albertsons’ Co. has been a trusted and valued partner for ScriptDrop over the last few years,” said Nick Potts, CEO of ScriptDrop. “We’re proud of their decision to offer waived delivery fees to their patients and honored to be a part of the solution to keep patients healthy during this stressful time.”
This announcement represents the latest in a series of actions Albertsons Companies is taking to address the challenges of COVID-19, including:
Albertsons Companies and Albertsons Companies Foundation have pledged $3 million and launched a major fundraiser to help feed families in need during the COVID-19 crisis
Asking customers to respect dedicated shopping hours for senior citizens and other at-risk populations
Adjusting store hours to give teams the time they need to restock shelves and get ready to serve their community
Creating “Contact Free” delivery procedures so that delivery drivers can sign for our customers when delivering orders
Patients should consult their local pharmacy for pricing on 1- or 2-hour rush deliveries, as this service will continue to have delivery fees.
Albertsons Cos. will reevaluate delivery pricing after May 1 based on the latest developments with the COVID-19 outbreak.
LETTER FROM THE CEO OF ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, VIVEK SANKARAN:
To our valued customers and neighbors,
Like you, we are closely monitoring the Coronavirus pandemic, and acting as quickly as possible to continue serving you to the best of our ability, both in-store and through our various delivery options.
Your Safety is Front of Mind
We have continued to take enhanced measures to clean and disinfect all departments, restrooms and other high-touch points of the store throughout the day, as well as a deep cleanse at the end of each business day. Cart wipes and hand sanitizer stations continue to be available at key locations within the store for your convenience.
As recommended by state and local health officials, we encourage you to wash, or sanitize, your hands before entering and leaving the store as a courtesy to your neighbors and our associates.
We’ve created “Contact Free” delivery procedures for our team and have changed our signature processes so that our delivery drivers can sign for you when delivering your order, after completing an ID check, if necessary.
Keeping You Supplied
Our doors remain open and we continue to have essential goods that our communities need, and we are replenishing inventory as quickly as possible.
Some of our stores have adjusted their hours to give our teams the time they need to restock shelves and get ready to serve your community.
We have also reserved special times for seniors and other vulnerable shoppers who must leave home to obtain their groceries, unless otherwise locally mandated. We ask that you avoid shopping Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 9 AM so that the stores can be available for them.
Our Grocery Delivery, Pharmacy Delivery and Drive Up & Go services are available, and we are doing everything we can to ensure deliveries and pickups are on schedule. We appreciate the patience and understanding our customers have shown as we strive to meet all of our customers’ needs during this critical time.
Temporary Changes
We ask that you continue to respect the quantity limits of select, high-demand items put in place at your store in order to ensure more of your neighbors can find the products they need.
Our return policy is temporarily changing. We are not accepting returns at this time.
We have temporarily suspended our Raincheck service. Right now, we may be out of some items indefinitely. We will make every effort to let customers know when they will be in stock again.
For Our Team
The health and well-being of our team remains our top priority. Associates diagnosed with COVID-19 will receive two weeks of replacement pay while they are unable to work. If the associate is unable to return to work after two weeks, the associate will be able to use any other sick leave pay or short-term disability.
We will also pay any associate who is asked to self-quarantine by their health care provider or by our company, based on current CDC risk assessment guidelines, up to two weeks of replacement pay while they are unable to work.
Our teams across our stores are truly the people to thank for keeping our stores operating. Working long hours and stocking our shelves to keep up with demand, we truly cannot express enough gratitude for their dedication and commitment these last few weeks. Please join me in showing your appreciation when shopping with us next.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and your community. We appreciate your patience, and we will continue to keep you updated.
* 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 Giant Company’s coronavirus update page.
April 23
THE GIANT COMPANY TO HIRE ADDITIONAL 3,000 TEAM MEMBERS TO MEET SURGING DEMAND FOR GROCERIES
Tech Enhancements Set to Increase Online Capacity Website and App Improvements Bring More Personalization
CARLISLE, Pa. – The GIANT Company announced today it intends to hire an additional 3,000 team members, nearly 10% of its total workforce, to meet the surging demand for groceries as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Over the past month, GIANT has hired approximately 4,000 temporary and part-time team members across its family of brands which includes GIANT, MARTIN’S, GIANT Direct, MARTIN’S Direct and GIANT Heirloom Market.
“At The GIANT Company, our purpose is to connect families for a better future, and our mission is more vital now than ever before,” said Matthew Lutcavage, vice president of human resources, The GIANT Company. “We’re committed to serving our communities and customers during this extraordinary time while helping our neighbors who are looking for work.”
The company is hiring for multiple in-store positions plus fulfillment center selectors and drivers to support GIANT Direct, its online grocery service that offers pickup and delivery.
“Over the past two months, our incredible in-store and e-commerce team members have worked tirelessly to serve families, but the demand for online grocery keeps growing stronger,” continued Lutcavage.
To meet this demand, the company will phase in tech enhancements to the GIANT Direct platform with the goal of adding order capacity and increasing time slots. GIANT Direct offers contactless pickup service at more than 130 GIANT and MARTIN’S stores. Customers across 90% of the company’s footprint have access to this online grocery ordering and delivery service.
In addition to tech enhancements to increase online order capacity, digital enhancements to the company’s website and app are being rolled out this week. These enhancements will help further personalize the shopping experience with product recommendations, introduce a bolder interface, and include a robust search and filter capability that connects to the Guiding Stars nutrition guidance program.
To place an order with GIANT Direct, customers can use any device to visit giantdirect.com or the GIANT app, enter their zip code and begin shopping. Before checking out, they’ll be asked to select how they would like to receive their order – delivery or pickup.
To also support social distancing, customers can now pick up prescriptions using the GIANT Direct parking spaces at their local store. For senior customers who cannot come into the store, a complimentary USPS delivery option is also available.
Those interested can apply online at the GIANT or MARTIN’Swebsites or speak with any store manager.
March 20
GIANT is continuing to make updates to help protect the health and safety of our team members and customers. The following policies and procedures, aimed at helping to stop the spread of the coronavirus, are now being enacted across GIANT, GIANT Heirloom Market and GIANT Direct. These new actions are in addition to previously announced efforts: the enhanced cleaning efforts implemented, contactless delivery, adjusted store hours from 6 a.m. – 10 p.m. and a limit of two on key categories throughout the store, including paper goods and disinfectant products.
Social Distancing In-store – At all stores, we are encouraging all team members and customers to practice social distancing, approximately 6 feet, in all areas of our store. In addition, we have added reminders to our in-store radio announcements and signage throughout the store.
Checkstand Partitions – Clear checkstand partitions will be installed at select registers, pharmacy pick-up window, customer service desk, Starbucks, and the Beer & Wine register. Checkstand partitions will be installed at all stores within the chain by the end of March at these areas to further limit contact and potential exposure.
Use of Full-Size Carts Encouraged – GIANT strongly encourages the use of full-size carts (even for small orders) to help with social distancing throughout the store.
Reusable Bags Practices – Customers who bring their own reusable bags will now have to bag their own groceries. If customers wish to use plastic bags or purchase a new reusable bag, our team members are happy to bag their purchase.
First Operating Hour – On March 19, all stores began opening from 6 a.m. – 7 a.m. to service only customers who are age 60 and older. In response to customer feedback, if a customer finds themselves immunocompromised as defined by the CDC or are accompanying an older adult as a caregiver, they won’t be turned away. Although we are not requesting an ID or physician’s note, we ask our customers to please respond appropriately to the purpose of this first hour and do the right thing for your neighbors.
Limit Your Purchases to What You Need – At GIANT, we believe we’re all in this together – and we’re here for you. Demand is high, but our supplier partners have ramped up production, trucks are coming to our stores daily, and we’re restocking as quickly as we can. In short, there’s plenty of food (and paper goods) in the supply chain. So we kindly ask that all customers limit their purchases to what they truly need right now – and refrain from buying in excess. Doing so will allow everyone to care for their family by having access to everyday essentials. We are one community and stronger together.
Contactless Shopping
Scan-it Mobile (available in select locations – see store list)
Skip the store’s handheld scanner and use your own smartphone instead with the Scan It! Mobile app.
Scan-it Express (available in select locations – see store list at www.)
Add a payment method to your Scan-It Express lane. Also known as “frictionless checkout”, Scan It! Express is one of our most contact-free options, with specific lanes in several of our stores dedicated to an entirely hands-free checkout experience.
The GIANT App
Our app is free to download, and it offers several conveniences that will lessen contact and time away from home, like online GIANT Direct ordering and a mobile barcode for touch-free scanning of your store card.
Deli Order Ahead
We understand that limiting your time in crowds is important right now. Deli Order Ahead is available in the GIANT app so you can place your fresh deli order from your own phone, then just zip in and pick it up. Find it in the menu of your GIANT app now, and we’ll be on hand to make sure your order is ready for pickup.
In addition to our other Social Distancing measures, our Deli departments are moving to a “contactless” model. To keep customers and team members safe, customers will have to place their Deli order at the in-store kiosk or through the GIANT app. Orders can then be picked up at the designated Deli Pick-up Order area.
The GIANT Pharmacy App
Request your prescription refills right through the app, and we’ll text you when they’re ready. You’ll be in and out of the store in a fraction of the time.
March 19
Now, more than ever, it’s vital we come together as a community to support each other during these astonishing times. Part of that is listening, showing compassion, and demonstrating care for some of our neighbors who are most vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus. As such, we wanted to update you on some measures we’re taking to better support you and your families during this time.
Beginning Thursday, March 19, all GIANT stores will open to service only customers who are age 60 and over first from 6:00 a.m.-7:00 a.m. daily. During this time, community members in this age category can avoid crowded shopping to allow for better social distancing. 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 team members do reserve the right to ask customers to leave if they are not a member of this age group.
We are also adjusting our overall hours to 6:00 a.m. to 10 p.m. to enable our team members to spend more time sanitizing, unloading deliveries and stocking shelves. Rest assured that our stores receive deliveries throughout the day, so our shelves will be replenished for shoppers at all hours. GIANT is also placing a limit of “two” on key categories throughout the store–including paper goods and disinfectant products–so everyone can have access to the items they need.
GIANT Direct will remain available to all customers as well. With our “Contactless” delivery option, we’ll notify you by text or email when the driver arrives, and they will practice social distancing to keep you and your family safe.
Finally, GIANT Company is actively hiring temporary and part-time team members across our organization. Immediate positions as service associates, cashiers, general stock clerks, drivers and fulfillment center selectors are available. Those interested can apply online at the GIANT website or speak with any store manager.
Candidly, the current demand for groceries is unlike anything we’ve ever seen before in our 97-year history. However, during this extraordinary time, you can depend on GIANT.
Stay safe and healthy,
Nicholas Bertram
President, The GIANT Company
A Message for our GIANT Direct Customers
Your family is very important to us, and we’re working hard to make sure you have access to a full selection of quality groceries at all times. Overall demand is extremely high right now, and as a result, you may encounter the following when placing an online GIANT Direct order:
There may be limited time slot availability for delivery and/or pickup, and some orders may be delayed. We will alert you if we need to extend the time needed to fill your order.
Some products are out of stock for a limited time and some are currently unavailable from our suppliers.
Due to unprecedented demand that has led to out of stocks, we regret we must temporarily suspend product substitutions.
We are focused on getting back in stock as soon as possible. We know you count on us, so we apologize.
Thank you for your patience.
March 17
An Important Delivery Update from your GIANT Direct Team
Together with our customers, we’re all in on protecting our communities, so starting Tuesday March 17th, GIANT Direct will only provide Contactless deliveries for all customers in all areas until further notice. Contactless delivery means that your driver will practice social distancing during the delivery process, allowing us to continue providing the friendly service you expect.
Here’s what that will look like: your driver will place the order on your doorstep, ring your doorbell, step back 6 feet, and wait to greet you. From there, should you need assistance, the driver will then ask you to practice social distancing (6 feet between you) during the process. We regret no coupons, returns or recycling can be taken on Contactless deliveries.
Of course, we understand some customers may want to tip their driver. First, thank you – tips for our drivers are never required and always appreciated! With Contactless delivery, here are some easy ways to tip your driver if you so choose:
Cash tips can be left in an envelope where your driver can retrieve;
You can add a tip during the checkout process when submitting your order;
Or, contact Customer Care via phone or email and ask them to add a tip to your order.
When it comes to your Invoice, here’s how you view it online:
Within “My Account,” accessed by clicking on your name in the upper right part of the site, invoices (past and present) can be found within “Account History.”
If you are in our app, to view an Invoice, go to the “More” menu.
Please give us a shout at 800-573-2763 if you have any questions.
We’re here to help and we’re “all in.” Thank you for your understanding.
We believe our role serving customers and the community during this time is a critical one. We care about our team members, customers and products, and we’re evaluating the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in real-time. We will continue to update here about the actions Whole Foods Market is taking.
To our Customers, Suppliers and Colleagues;
