Grocery store chains are making sweeping changes to operating hours and store policies to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Supermarkets across Western North Carolina, such as Ingles, Publix, Walmart, and Harris Teeter, are shortening the hours they are open. Many stores are also enforcing new policies that limit the number of certain high-demand items per customer -- particularly eggs, milk, and toilet paper.
During his press briefing Mon., Gov. Roy Cooper implored shoppers to be prudent and refrain from "panic-buying."
“Please do not overbuy at the grocery store. I’ve had almost all of the grocery store officials on the phone and they continue to tell me that supply lines are open,” Cooper said.
Stores, including Harris Teeter and Publix, are no longer accepting returns nor issuing refunds.
Additionally, many grocery chains are setting aside special shopping times for senior citizens, who are considered the most vulnerable to the devastating and fatal effects of COVID-19. Stores offering a special “senior hour” include Publix, Ingles, Walmart.
Operating Hours
Walmart - 7am-8:30pm
Harris Teeter - 7am-8pm
Whole Foods - 8am-8pm
Aldi - 9am-7pm
Publix - 8am-8pm
Trader Joe's - 9am-7pm
Senior Hour
Walmart - Tuesdays from 6-7am.
Harris Teeter - Monday and Thursdays from 6am-7am
Whole Foods - every day at 7am
Publix - 7am-8am
Trader Joe's - 9am-10am, expedited line for senior customers
