Harris Teeter joins other grocers limiting customers in stores during COVID-19 crisis

Harris Teeter is joining other retailers in limiting the number of customers in stores at one time., part of the fight to stop COVID-19 spread.

Effective at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Harris Teeter “will limit the number of customers to 50% of building code capacity — 20% in South Carolina — to further support physical distancing in our stores,” a statement says online.

“Store associates will monitor the number of customers to ensure the capacity limit is maintained,” the company said Wednesday.

The Matthews-based grocer, owned by Kroger Co., joins other grocers like Trader Joe’s and Bi-Lo, and retailers like Walmart, Target and Lowe’s Home Improvement, in monitoring the number of customers in stores at one time.

Walmart and Target started counting customers Saturday in the Charlotte area. Last month, some local Trader Joe’s stores started limiting the number of customers in stores at one time.

Last week, Lowe’s Home Improvement announced additional social distancing measures in stores with workers monitoring customer flow and changing floor layouts to open up space. The Mooresville-based company developed a new app that lets associates monitor foot traffic and limit entrance based on CDC and local guidelines, CEO Marvin Ellison said.

Coronavirus safety steps

The capacity limit is in addition to other measures Harris Teeter has implemented for social distancing in the midst of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

These moves include the installation of Plexiglas protective shields at check stands and counters and floor decals at checkout and signage throughout the store urging people to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet between each other.

The company said last week it is working to get protective masks and gloves for workers.

Also last week, Harris Teeter announced a $2 “Hero Bonus” for employees in its retail, distribution center, dairy and corporate office from April 1-21.

And the grocer is offering workers emergency paid leave, financial assistance to workers directly affected by COVID-19 through its Fred J. Morganthall II Foundation and providing mental health services.

Harris Teeter is hiring more than 5,000 employees during the coronavirus crisis. Apply at myhtcareers.referrals.selectminds.com.

Harris Teeter has about 30,000 employees and over 230 stores, with 18 locations in Charlotte.

This story was originally published April 8, 2020 at 11:01 AM with the headline "Harris Teeter joins other grocers limiting customers in stores during COVID-19 crisis."