ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - Schnuck Markets, Inc. announced on Thursday that it will require all customers to wear a face covering while shopping in its stores, starting Monday, July 20.
The new rule will effect all 113 Schnucks locations in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Iowa, and include exceptions for young children and those with medical conditions who are unable to wear a face covering.
“From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we moved quickly to respond to the ever-changing environment and prioritize safety and cleanliness in our stores,” said Schnucks Chairman and CEO Todd Schnuck. “We have been monitoring this situation closely, and given the escalating number of positive COVID-19 cases in the regions we serve, we believe requiring masks for teammates, vendors and, now, customers is in the best interest of public safety. We understand that there are a variety of opinions about masks, however the CDC and other health experts are aligned on the benefits of facial coverings in reducing the spread of COVID-19.”
Schnucks will provide complimentary masks–one per customer–for a limited time and while supplies last. Schnucks is continuing to encourage customers to limit store visits to one shopper per household, when possible, and to socially distance while inside stores.
There will be signs posted at every store entrance and employees will "help customers understand the facial covering requirement, offering masks to those without one and sanitize shopping carts."