Kroger and Wegmans Food Markets Inc. have joined the growing list of grocers and other retailers discontinuing mask requirements in accordance with the latest COVID-19 guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Cincinnati-based Kroger, the largest U.S. supermarket chain, implemented the change for all fully vaccinated customers and employees on Thursday, while requesting all unvaccinated patrons and workers continue wearing face coverings, CBS News reported.
#NEW: @kroger updates mask policy: “Starting May 20, fully vaccinated customers and most fully vaccinated associates no longer need to wear a mask in our facilities, including stores, distribution centers...” #wlwt @wlwt pic.twitter.com/fxvzFNRPec
— Dan Griffin WLWT (@DanGriffinWLWT) May 19, 2021
Meanwhile, Kroger pharmacy and clinic employees must also continue wearing masks per the CDC’s guidance governing health care settings, the grocer’s updated policy stated.
>> Related: Target drops mask policy for vaccinated customers, employees
Likewise, Rochester, New York-based Wegmans lifted its mask requirement Wednesday for fully vaccinated customers and employees in New York, WROC reported.
Wegmans is joining the list of local businesses lifting their mandatory mask policy for fully vaccinated people. https://t.co/KaLdqe4o8i
— WGRZ (@WGRZ) May 19, 2021
It was not immediately clear, however, if Wegmans’ updated policy will operate on an honor system or if customers must verify their vaccination status to ditch their masks in stores, the TV station reported.
>> Walmart, Costco, Trader Joe’s lift mask restrictions for vaccinated customers
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Cox Media Group
