Ingles Markets is reducing its operating hours and dedicating two hours each week to first responders and those most vulnerable to COVID-19.
Effective Monday, March 23, all Ingles stores except those in Tennessee will be open from 7 am-9 pm. Tennessee stores will be open from 7 am-10 pm.
In addition, beginning Tuesday, March 24, Ingles will dedicate the first shopping hour from 7 – 8 am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to senior shoppers, first responders, and those with compromised immune systems.
While well-intentioned, some people have raised alarm over the plan to mix shopping hours for medically fragile populations with first responders. Some local emergency officials say they appreciate the gesture but are trying to keep first responders and other healthcare professionals away from public spaces to protect their health and that of others. Others insist first responders remain among the “most protected” against the disease as long as they’re following proper protocols and procedures.
The Asheville-based company owns over 200 grocery stores throughout the Southeast and can be found in most counties across Northeast Georgia.
The company recently announced the schedule change and special shopping hours as part of its ongoing COVID-19 response. The company also announced that it is temporarily suspending product returns. A statement on the corporate website says, “If any fresh perishable item (meat, seafood, deli, bakery or produce) doesn’t meet our freshness standard, we will replace it or issue a refund.”
To find out how other area businesses are adapting their hours and services in response to COVID-19, visit the Who’s Open, Who’s Not page here on nowhabersham.com.
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