Kroger Stores Requiring Customers to Wear Face Masks

The new requirement will take effect on July 22. 

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(Cincinnati, Oh.) - Cincinnati-based Kroger company announced Wednesday that all customers will now be required to wear masks at stores nationwide. 

The new requirement will take effect on July 22. 

"With the increase in COVID-19 cases across the country, we are committed to doing our part to help reduce the spread of the virus," reads a statement from Kroger. "Starting July 22, we will require all customers in all locations to wear a mask, joining our associates who continue to wear masks."

The company also stated that they recognize that some customers may not be able to wear a mask due to medical reasons, but instead is encouraging those customers to consider an alternative option such as a face shield, or facial covering. 

"If they're unable to wear a mask or an alternative design, we request that they use our eCommerce services like pickup or delivery," Kroger wrote. 

 The announcement of required face masks or coverings came just a few short hours after Walmart stores announced their requirements.