Publix now offers special shopping hours to first responders and hospital staff

By James Bennett III on Wed, Apr 15, 2020 at 4:36 pm

Photo via Publix/Facebook

Starting Thursday, April 16, first responders and hospital staff will have special shopping hours at Publix.

Publix stores will appoint Thursday evenings from 8 p.m.-9 p.m. and Friday mornings from 7 a.m.-8 a.m. specifically for the emergency workers.

The announcement comes a few days after two employees tested positive for coronavirus at separate Publix stores in Pinellas County.

The Lakeland-based grocery chain recently installed plexiglass at registers, customer service desks and pharmacies. It’s also finally allowing employees to wear gloves and face masks. They've also introduced new mobile pay options like Apple Pay.

The company currently does not offer hazard pay for its employees.

click to enlarge

Photo via Publix/Facebook

This story originally appeared in our sister paper Creative Loafing Tampa Bay.
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