Hy-Vee boosts store security with new in-house team

Hy-Vee is increasing its efforts to ensure the safety of its customers and employees.

The Iowa-based grocer, which operates more than 285 stores, is sending members of its new “Hy-Vee Retail Security” team to stores across its eight-state region. The security officers will be deployed in Hy-Vee locations during operating hours.

The officers, many of whom have a law enforcement background, are specially trained to defuse situations and are equipped to protect the safety of Hy-Vee customers and employees alike. The retailer said the officers’ training was designed by Hy-Vee retail security leaders in collaboration with law enforcement partners.

The officers are currently deployed in several stores.  As others complete the training program they will be sent to other Hy-Vee stores across the grocer’s market area. Hy-Vee is actively recruiting for officers to join its new security team.

“Hy-Vee has a strong history of doing anything for our customers, and these officers will be held to that same standard,” said Jeremy Gosch, Hy-Vee’s president and chief operating officer. “These officers will help provide another layer of safety and security for our customers, and will work alongside our store employees to deliver the same helpful smiles and outstanding service everyone expects at their local store.”

[Read More: Hy-Vee offers pharmacy customers free talking prescription labels]

Hy-Vee is an employee-owned corporation operating that operates more than 285 retail stores across eight Midwestern states with sales of more than $12 billion annually.