MD Harris Teeter Stores Cut Hours Because Of Worker Shortage

MARYLAND — Harris Teeter grocery stores across Maryland and nationwide cut their store hours this week, eliminating 24-hour service.

Until further notice, Harris Teeter store hours will be 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. The store’s Fresh Foods Market Service Counter will close at 8 p.m., with all amenities such as sandwiches and pizza service closing at 7 p.m., Harris Teeter said on its website. The store’s meat and seafood counter also will close at 8 p.m.

Stores in Maryland, northern Virginia and D.C. have previously been open 24 hours, or until 11 p.m.

“We thank our shoppers and community members for continuing to show care, gratitude and kindness to our hard-working, valued associates as well as your fellow shoppers,” the North Carolina-based grocery chain said.

The change in store hours was first reported by @Grocerying, a Twitter account that covers grocery stores and shopping centers in North Carolina and Virginia. The new store hours are reportedly due to a shortage of workers.

The changes are taking place "to focus on thorough cleaning, replenishment, staffing and the well-being of our valued associates," Danna J. Robinson, communications manager with Harris Teeter, said in a statement provided to WRAL.

"We believe closing our stores earlier will allow our valued associates to: take their earned days off; efficiently process ExpressLane orders; manage labor in this difficult employment environment; ensure excellent closings to better prepare for the following day; and make certain that our stores are a clean, safe place to work and shop," the grocery chain said.