Associates have been working hard during the last few months keeping shelves stocked and following protective measures to continue supporting our customers and communities during this crisis.

On March 13, President Donald Trump declared the coronavirus outbreak a national emergency. Americans nationwide started stocking up on essentials in preparation for the unknown, and we were hit with an overwhelming demand for goods. We took some initial steps to make sure we continued serving our customers and helping our communities during this challenging time.

First, Publix reduced store hours to allow extra time for stocking and preventive sanitation, so our stores were ready to serve our customers the next day. Publix also designated shopping hours for customers ages 65 and over, and first responders and hospital staff to better support our community.

As another measure to protect the health and well-being of our customers and associates, we accelerated the rollout of contactless pay, so customers could have the option to pay with their devices or contactless cards without having to touch the PIN pad, a high-frequency touch point. We suspended all product and recipe sampling, the free cookie program and Aprons Cooking School classes, as well as closed salad and hot bars until further notice. We also installed plexiglass shields at all cash registers, pharmacies and customer service counters, and provided store associates with masks and gave them to option to wear gloves. To encourage social distancing, we implemented one-way shopping on each aisle, including Publix Liquors, and store managers were given discretion to limit the number of customers inside stores.

In addition to sanitation and safety measures, Publix also focused on the well-being of our communities, offering rent relief to businesses operating in Publix-owned shopping centers that had to close because of the coronavirus pandemic. And Publix Charities donated a total of $2 million to Feeding America member food banks across the Southeast to help communities in our operating area.

Through it all, our associates’ resilience, commitment and servants’ heart shone through once again. We adapted to the constant changes in doing business and taking care of our customers.

Associates are the heart of the operation during these unprecedented times. And, our communities are grateful for all the measures we took to continue serving them.