Grocery stores update mask policies as COVID-19 delta variant cases rise

By Kelly McCarthy

Grocery stores around the country are once again updating their policies on facial coverings.

Many large retailers around the U.S. first implemented mask mandates in 2020 throughout the spring and summer with the spread of COVID-19, but once vaccinations increased policies changed allowing many vaccinated Americans to shop in person without a mask. Now with the transmission of the delta variant, retailers have adjusted those requirements regardless of vaccine status.

Costco

"Costco locations will follow the face mask regulations of the applicable state and local jurisdictions," the big box store said on its COVID updates page.

Publix

Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images, FILE

A sign posted outside a Publix supermarket indicates face masks are required while shopping in the Orlando, Fla. store, Aug. 27, 2020.

As of Monday, the supermarket chain in the Southeast will require associates, regardless of vaccination status, to wear face coverings over their noses and mouths while inside any Publix location.

The store does not have a mask mandate for customers but on its site states: "The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people in areas of substantial- or high-transmission risk wear face coverings over their noses and mouths when in public, indoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status."

Walmart, Sam's Club

Eduardo Munoz/Reuters, FILE

A cashier and a shopper are pictured wearing masks at a Walmart store in North Brunswick, New Jersey, July 20, 2020.

After the CDC updated its guidance on wearing masks in public indoor settings in counties with substantial or high transmission levels of the delta variant, the retailer announced it will "continue to follow the latest CDC guidance, which includes fully vaccinated people wearing masks in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission, effective immediately."

"In these counties and where there are state or local mask mandates, associates will be required to wear masks inside our facilities, including stores, clubs, distribution centers and fulfillment centers," the company said, adding that it also includes campus offices.

There will be signage posted at stores to remind both customers and staff "about the CDC’s revised guidance and strongly encourage them to wear masks."

Whole Foods

"Unvaccinated customers are asked to continue to wear masks. Masks are still required in U.S. and Canada stores with a state/provincial or local mandate," the company stated.

The Amazon-owned brick-and-mortar store said in its most recent update that both customers and team members "who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 are welcome in most of our store locations without a mask."

Kroger

Bloomberg via Getty Images, FILE.

A shopper holding an umbrella walks towards a Kroger grocery store in Louisville, Ky., April 26, 2020.

The supermarket company with multiple grocery chains, lifted its mask mandate for fully vaccinated customers in May, but masks are still required for employees who are not inoculated or who work at on-site pharmacies and clinics.

"In light of the Delta variant and updated CDC recommendations, we strongly encourage all individuals, including those who are vaccinated, to wear a mask when in our stores and facilities," the company said in an update.