Toronto – April 11, 2020 – UFCW food retail members are on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic and are doing their part to make sure that everyone gets the food and supplies they need as safely and efficiently as possible.

But in working through this crisis, members are understandably concerned about their health, and they are asking customers to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by taking some simple precautions while shopping.

Here are five ways that you can protect workers’ health and safety and help contain the spread of the coronavirus when going to the grocery store:

Shop solo, one customer per cart

For the time being, visiting the grocery is a necessity – not a social outing – and should preferably be done alone. By shopping solo (one customer per cart), you can help grocery stores maintain physical distancing and ensure that lines move as quickly as possible.  

Limit outings and shop for your friends, family, and neighbours

Try to limit your visits to the grocery store to once a week or less. When going to the store, consider shopping for friends, family, and neighbours to reduce crowds and lineups. 

Get in and get out

Before you go grocery shopping, know what you need to get. At the store, try to purchase quickly, and when you’re done shopping, exit the store so that other customers can have their turn to shop. This will also help maintain physical distancing in stores.

Follow physical distancing rules

Grocery stores are doing their best to keep customers and employees healthy and safe, but they need your help to make sure that physical distancing measures are a success.

When you’re at the store, keep 2 metres between yourself, other customers, and employees; look on the ground for markers, lines, and other instructions while you’re shopping and waiting in line; and if the parking lot or line outside is full, consider shopping later.

Be nice and respectful

Remember that grocery staff are everyday heroes who make sure that you and your family can get the food, supplies, beverages, and other products you need to stay healthy and safe. Avoid bullying, berating, or harassing staff and please be sure to keep your distance. 

By following these simple steps, you can protect the health and safety of workers and shoppers alike and help stop the spread of COVID-19.