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Kroger temporarily waiving pickup fee, implementing other safety measures amid coronavirus pandemic

Posted at 9:38 PM, Mar 26, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-26 21:38:50-04

ROANOKE, Va. - In response to the increase in demand for alternative ways to shop for groceries amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Kroger announced Thursday that it is temporarily waiving its pickup service fee nationwide.

The service, which is normally $4.95, will be waived with no minimum order threshold. Customers may experience limited inventory options and wait times than usual due to the increased demand.

Earlier this week, the chain announced it would install plexiglass shields at many cash registers to promote physical distancing. Many stores are beginning the installation process this week, and management anticipates every check lane - including pharmacy counters - having a partition within the next several weeks.

To further ensure the protection of both customers and associates, Kroger is installing "educational floor decals" to promote physical distancing at check lanes and other counters.

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Commonly used areas such as cashier stations, self-checkouts, credit card terminals, conveyor belts and food service counters are cleaned multiple times an hour, and shelves are also cleaned as associates restock products. Restrooms are sanitized more frequently and restocked with supplies and shopping carts, baskets and equipment are also wiped down.

Over the last two weeks, The Kroger Company has hired 18,000 associates for both full-time and part-time positions across the U.S. to keep stores stocked and to support people looking for permanent jobs. If you're interested in applying, you can visit this link.

Related: Companies in Hampton Roads looking to hire due to influx of customers amid pandemic

Kroger Mid-Atlantic stores have also adjusted its operating hours, dedicating the first hour of operation on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to seniors (people older than 60) and customers most at-risk of contracting the virus. These customers will have first access to the store from 7-8 a.m. until further notice.

Additionally, The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation announced a $3 million commitment to rapidly deploy hunger relief resources to communities disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The foundation's commitment will be equally distributed between its nonprofit partners, Feeding America and No Kid Hungry. The funding will not only support local food banks across the country; it will also fund initiatives that ensure children still have access to nutritious meals while schools are closed.

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