Publix To Require Face Masks In All Stores

GEORGIA — Following suit of other retailers, including Target, Walmart and Kroger, Publix announced Thursday that all stores will now require masks beginning next week.

The supermarket chain released a statement, saying:

Beginning July 21, customers are required to use face coverings over their noses and mouths while inside any Publix store. This new mandate is encouraged by the CDC for most individuals. Thank you for doing your part to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The CDC also recommends we keep our distance to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Publix has put into place new measures to help our customers maintain social distancing with other customers and our associates. Our aisles are now one-way to reduce your chances of passing another shopper. We’ve marked off 6-foot increments at checkout. And finally, our managers have discretion to limit the number of shoppers in the store at one time. There is one more thing you can do to help: Please shop alone, if you can. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding to help us all achieve the important goal of social distancing.

This announcement comes after other grocery stores announced similar restrictions this week. Other retailers that recently announced mask requirements include CVS, Best Buy, Sam's Club, Walmart, Kroger, Starbucks and Kohl's. Costco already has a mask mandate in place.

To read more about Publix's coronavirus response, visit its dedicated website.