SEATTLE — Grocery stores are taking action to help maintain social distancing and keep you and employees safe.
And each store is handing the COVID-19 pandemic a little differently.
Social distancing is the “new norm” but people say one of the biggest challenges is maintaining that six foot distance at grocery stores.
“That’s the hardest problem,” said Anitha Pasupaty, who was at the Ballard Fred Meyer.
Scroll down to continue reading
More news from KIRO 7
- Coronavirus: No immediate plans to expand virus restrictions in WA, Gov. Inslee says
- Everett mayor issues stay at home directive to all residents
- Coronavirus live updates: Grocery store plans to give $10 million in bonus pay to workers
- Sewing community steps up to help with COVID-19 medical mask shortage
- Do you have an investigative story tip? Send us an email at investigate@kiro7.com
At Fred Meyer stores, you’ll now now see "X" marks taped at every checkout line. Signs explain it’s to help ensure proper distance between yourself and other shoppers. Fred Meyer has also removed bulk open container bulk food products, and suspended returns on product returns.
Grocery Stores are implementing social distancing & other policies with the #COVIDー19 pandemic.
— Deedee Sun (@DeedeeKIRO7) March 22, 2020
Fred Meyer has X marks 6’ apart at checkout lanes. No bulk open containers, & no returns.
Stores also looked much less busy compared to last weekend! @KIRO7Seattle pic.twitter.com/y89KGZE708
Trader Joe’s is keeping an eye on the crowds inside and whenever it looks too busy, people are asked to stand in line outside until shoppers leave.
“I had no idea this was going to happen coming in here. I was like alright I guess I'll stand and keep my distance from everybody,” said Matt Zender, in like at the Queen Anne Trader Joe’s.
Grocery stores are having customers maintain #socialdistancing. A line to get inside Trader Joe’s in Ballard tonight! #Covid_19 #coronavirus@KIRO7Seattle pic.twitter.com/Wvm534rcGG
— Deedee Sun (@DeedeeKIRO7) March 21, 2020