This year’s pandemic has wreaked havoc on global economies. Lockdowns confined millions of consumers to their homes. Ordinary tasks like grocery shopping are now a challenge. While citizens are taking a few trips out in public, they still need to eat. Shopping for essentials can be safe as long as you take precautions. Here is how to minimize risks for you and your close ones.
1. Stores with Online Delivery
There is no need to leave your home if you need groceries. Basic necessities may be ordered through the Internet and delivered to your doorstep. These days, even this service has been reinvented.
Winn Dixie
Today, location is no longer the primary criteria: shoppers should pick stores that care about safety. Another issue is pricing. As the economy is in dire straits, consumers need to take advantage of special offers. Install mobile apps to get digital coupons. Also, don't miss the Winn Dixie ad to learn about huge discounts on groceries. These days, we ought to be pinching every penny.
The chain offers a special “drop-and-leave” option. The program eliminates personal contact between the courier and the customer. But what if there is no delivery to your area? Here, your option is a curbside pickup. A store employee will load your order into your car. All you need is to get out of the vehicle and open the trunk. Reputable chains make sure the workers wear protective equipment. Tip them while placing your order - this is a good gesture.
2. Safest Chains for In-store Shopping
Choose chains that follow the rules. A recent study conducted by marketing research company Ipsos Group found that Whole Foods, Costco, and Trader Joe's implemented the most precautions and adhered to them rigorously. As a result, these chains make a positive impression on customers and experts. Full details may be found in the Consumer Health & Safety Index.
For the study, the company surveyed 2,000 U.S. shoppers and hired thousands of so-called ‘mystery shops.’ The scope was impressive: 45 brands across 7 industries. The researchers evaluated multiple precautions, from masks to cleaning of surfaces to store traffic. So, what makes the top three chains stand out?
At Whole Foods locations, almost all employees (98%) wore masks inside, and checkout areas had plexiglass barriers. Contactless payment was also available in most stores (87%). An overwhelming majority (91%) of customers maintained a safe distance from others.
At Costco, 95% of employees wore masks inside. 94% of the locations had social distancing markers. Staff at Trader Joe's controlled the number of visitors at entrances and exits in 94% of locations.
Still, regardless of all measures, contagion is possible. This is why you should leave your kids at home. Sooner or later, the pandemic will end. You will be able to go shopping with children, which is delightful if organized well.
3. Stores with Special Hours
At certain times, shopping is safer. See if your favorite store has special hours. They may be found at:
- Safeway,
- Albertsons,
- Costco, and others.
Early in the morning, the most vulnerable residents, such as the elderly, can shop in more comfortable conditions. This means there is more distance, less pressure, and more time.
Looking Ahead
The country is still grappling with the pandemic. No one knows when the infection will finally subside. In the months to come, safety must remain a top priority for shoppers.
Order contactless delivery if you can and take precautions on your store visits. Wear gloves and face coverings, use hand sanitizers, and choose hours with the lowest traffic. Sadly, few stores are meeting customer expectations in terms of safety measures. This means you need to be extra cautious when shopping.
