Several major supermarkets have announced a continued prioritisation of in-store safety measures following the lifting of mandatory Coronavirus restrictions. Sainsbury’s and Tesco have both published press releases outlining measures they will take as well as their requested practices for their customers.

Image: Sainsbury’s

SAINSBURY’S UPDATE

As part of Sainsbury’s efforts, new in-store signs and tannoy messages will encourage customers to continue to wear a face covering, if possible. Members of staff at the supermarket will also Colleagues will also be encouraged to continue to wear a mask, with the exception being for staff who are working behind a screen. All of Sainsbury’s leadership team will also wear wear face coverings when visiting stores.

Sainsbury’s has confirmed that while screens between self-service checkouts and dividing checkout queues will be slowly start to be removed from stores in England, they will remain in place between colleagues and customers when they are being served at checkouts. Hand sanitiser stations will also remain in stores and a policy of frequent deep-cleaning will also continue.

Simon Roberts, Sainsbury’s Chief Executive, commented “As we respond to the recent change in government guidance, we know that safety is still top of mind for many of our colleagues and customers. Our colleagues’ safety is vital and many of our colleagues would feel more comfortable if those who can wear face coverings continue to wear them. We’ve listened closely to our customers too and they are telling us the same. We’re asking everyone to be considerate and, while we understand wearing a face covering will now be a personal choice, we want to ensure we best support and protect each other in the weeks and months ahead.”

TESCO UPDATE

Tesco published an announcement from their UK CEO highlighting a range of safety measures that will continue to remain in place. Face-coverings will continue to be encouraged to be worn by both customers and members of staff. Sanitiser and wipes will also continue to be available at Tesco store entrances. The supermarket will also be keeping their ‘traffic light’ system as well as checkout screens. Time will also continue to be set aside for customers who need or want a quieter shopping experience. For online shopping, Tesco team members will be happy to keep a safe distance when delivering shopping and will always do so if customers are self-isolating. All drivers will continue to sanitise their hands and equipment regularly. Tesco will also continue to offer priority slots for vulnerable customers.