MILWAUKEE -- Customers at local Pick 'n Save, Metro Market, and Kohl's locations will soon need to wear a face mask in order to shop.
Starting July 22, Kroger, the company that owns those two grocery brands, will require face masks for all its customers, it announced Wednesday.
Kohl's made a similar announcement. Its mask rule starts on July 20.
"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. Starting July 22, we will require all customers in all locations to wear a mask, joining our associates who continue to wear masks," a statement from Kroger reads.
With the increase in #COVID19 cases across the country, we are committed to doing our part to help reduce the spread of the virus. Starting July 22, we will require all customers in all locations to wear a mask, joining our associates who continue to wear masks. pic.twitter.com/r9WPD3QNFa
— Kroger News (@KrogerNews) July 15, 2020
The news comes the same day Walmart and Sam's Club announced its customers would soon need to start wearings masks as well.
Currently, the company that owns both chains says about 65% of its 5,000 stores and clubs are located in areas where there is already some form of government mandate on face coverings.
In addition to posting clear signage at the front of our stores, Walmart says it has created the role of “Health Ambassador” and will station them near the entrance to remind those without a mask of their new requirements.
“Our ambassadors will receive special training to help make the process as smooth as possible for customers,” wrote the company. “The ambassadors, identifiable by their black polo shirts, will work with customers who show up at a store without a face covering to try and find a solution.”
Locally, Milwaukee and Shorewood have both passed mask ordinances that mandate use in public spaces.