Kroger details measures to sanitize stores, protect customers, employees

The Kroger Co. is taking precautionary steps to protect its shoppers and employees from the coronavirus outbreak.

The nation’s largest supermarket retailer said it activated a “preparedness plan” several weeks ago and that it continues to monitor the rapidly evolving situation and follow guidance from federal, state and local agencies. The plan includes an extensive and frequent store cleaning regimen.

“We believe that everyone deserves to have access to fresh, affordable food and essentials, especially in times of uncertainty,” stated Kroger CEO Rodney McMullin. “That’s why our teams are working so hard to keep our stores clean, open and stocked. And that’s why our supply chain teams are working to ensure that the food, medicine and cleaning supplies our customers need are reaching our stores as quickly as possible and are available through our pickup, delivery and ship services.”

Here’s what Kroger is doing in store:

• Cleaning commonly used areas more often, including cashier stations, self-checkouts, credit card terminals, conveyor belts and food service counters, and cleaning shelves when restocking products;

• Sanitizing restrooms more frequently and restocking with supplies, including soap, paper towels and hand sanitizer;

• Adding extra hand sanitizer at cashier stations, food service counters, and all Pharmacy, The Little Clinic and Starbucks locations;

• Wiping down shopping carts, baskets and equipment;

• Partnering with our suppliers to replenish high-demand preparedness products;

• Continuing to provide our customers with free disinfectant wipes at our store entrances to sanitize their shopping carts or baskets; and 

• Following best practices for safe food handling, as always.

For its employees, the company is:  
• Encouraging associates to closely monitor their health and well-being;

• Providing hand sanitizer and tissues in breakrooms and meeting rooms; asking associates to stay home if they, or someone in their household, are sick; and 

• Suspending business air travel for associates through March 31, 2020, and recommending virtual meetings.