Walmart and Stop & Shop change hours, policies, due to COVID-19

Both Walmart and Stop & Shop are making some changes. At least for now.

According to a statement, Walmart is adjust their operating hours beginning Sunday, March 15. Walmart stores and Neighborhood Markets will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. until further notice. The statement goes on to say that the change in hours is to help ensure associates are able to stock the products customers are looking for and to perform cleaning and sanitizing. Stores currently operating under more reduced hours will keep their current hours of operation.

Walmart states that associates will continue to work the hours and shifts they are scheduled, and the supply chain and trucking fleet will continue to move products and deliver to stores on their regular schedules. Walmart has instituted a temporary COVID-19 emergency leave policy for employees.

Stop & Shop has also issued a statement.

The supermarket chain states that in order to allow more time for associates to unload deliveries and stock shelves, they are adjusting their hours to 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at most stores beginning Monday, March 16, until further notice.

The statement goes on to say that due to high demand as well as product shortages in some areas, they have temporarily suspended online pickup service until further notice.

Stop & Shop states that in addition to normal hygiene and sanitation in its stores and online operations, they are also taking additional measures, which include wiping down checkout areas, including the belts and pin pads, with disinfectant even more frequently.