Giant Stores In Maryland Modify Hours, Add Time For Older Adults

As the new coronavirus spreads, Giant is making operational changes. Across the company, the supermarket is setting aside time for older adults to shop.

Starting Friday, people age 60 and up will have their own hour in Giant stores. They will be able to shop from 6 to 7 a.m. daily with fewer crowds, before others come into the business.

"Although team members will not request ID for entry, the company asks its customers to please respect the purpose of the early opening – and do the right thing for your neighbors," Giant said in a statement.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the elderly are among the most vulnerable when it comes to complications from the new coronavirus.

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As an option for those who want to avoid time in public, Giant is also offering delivery and pickup services. Some pickup services have been "temporarily paused" because of demand.

During delivery, the driver will be contactless, meaning the worker "will practice social distancing," according to the company, which is working to increase its capacity for deliveries.

As it implements changes, Giant is hiring. It has immediate openings for cashiers, general stock clerks, service associates, drivers and fulfillment center selectors. Anyone who is interested may apply online or by speaking with a store manager.

Giant has a community page detailing its coronavirus response efforts.

This article has been updated.