Publix, GA Grocery Store Hours In Flux For Cleaning, Stocking

GEORGIA — With shoppers flocking to stores to stock up on peanut butter, toilet paper and frozen pizza, at least two major Georgia grocery store chains have adjusted store hours to allow staff more time to restock and clean store shelves.

Several chains around the country, including Publix and Aldi, announced Saturday that hours would be modified for various reasons, all of which stemmed from the ongoing new coronavirus outbreak. Some stores cited the health of employees as a reason for the move.

Several chains, including Publix, announced that hours would be shortened for more cleaning, restocking and the health of employees. Beginning Saturday, Publix Super Markets adjusted company-wide store and pharmacy hours company-wide to close at 8 p.m. nightly until further notice.

Albertson's, the owner of Safeway stores in Georgia, urged customers not to stockpile items. "In many markets, we are asking customers to respect quantity limits of select, high-demand items (like hand sanitizers and household cleaners) to help ensure more of our neighbors can find the products they need," the company said. "We’re refilling high-demand products as quickly as we can."

Safeway stores and pharmacies will remain open, the chain said online.

The grocer has also stepped up how often it cleans and disinfects all departments, restrooms, and other high-touch points of the store, like checkstands and service counters. Cart wipes and hand sanitizer stations have been installed in key locations within the stores, too.

Here's a look at the latest grocery chains announcing updated hours:

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Aldi: Some stores will be temporarily closed or have limited hours, the chain's website said Saturday. "At this time, we cannot provide specific location information. We appreciate you as our customer and continue to do what we can."

Lidl: So far there are no changes to store hours, the company said Saturday night.

Kroger: Beginning on Monday, store hours will change to 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. until further notice, according to The Enquirer.

Walmart: Starting Sunday, 24-hour stores will be open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. "until further notice." Other locations will also have reduced hours, USA Today reported.

Other grocery chains, including Trader Joe's, Target, BJ's and Whole Foods have not announced any changes to hours, though many have announced staff will do more cleaning in stores to curb potential coronavirus spread.

This list will update as new announcements are made.

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