SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - Ralphs grocery stores are extending their hours to help seniors and provide greater flexibility for the general public, according to Director of Corporate Affairs John Votava.
All stores will open at 6 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. for shoppers 60 years and older. "They're the most vulnerable population out there today, so we want to make sure they have time to come into our stores and shop uninhibited," Votava said.
Locations will remain open to the public until at least 10 p.m., some will stay open later.
Ralphs is also offering free pharmacy delivery for most locations and free pickup service for most grocery orders.
Families took advantage of the pickup service Sunday at the Ralphs in Mission Valley. "I think it's going to make people feel comfortable shopping in a different way. If you can order online or call it in for sure," Tim Earp said through a mask.
Votava said they're working on other safety features to protect customers and their employees. Plexiglass will be installed next week at checkout counters, and decals are already on the floor to encourage social distancing at checkout.
Votava also said employees are allowed to wear masks and gloves while they work.
He does have one request for anyone in the store, "if you see a senior who is shopping throughout the day, please let them cut to the front of the line so they can get in and out of the store safely."
Votava said this is the new normal for now, and the store hours will reflect that indefinitely.
He sang the praises of the public, employees and all those working to supply the stores, calling the workers heroes.