LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Changes to Kroger's mask policy went into effect Thursday.

What You Need To Know

  • Effective May 20, fully vaccinated shoppers and most associates can go without a mask in Kroger facilities

  • Employees in pharmacies will still be required to wear a mask2 goes here

  • Kroger announced the changes this week

  • The company asks customers who haven't been vaccinated to wear a mask

The company announced the changes Wednesday after the CDC issued new guidance last week.

In a news release, Kroger stated that it updated the policy based on the feedback of its associates and CDC guidance.

 

At the Kroger in the Clifton neighborhood of Louisville Thursday, most customers were wearing masks as they did their shopping. 

According to the statement, “fully vaccinated customers and most fully vaccinated associates” no longer need to wear a mask in Kroger facilities unless required by state or local jurisdiction. 

Non-vaccinated associates are required to wear one and the company asks customers who haven’t been vaccinated to mask up, too. 

In Jeffersontown, a few customers shopped without a mask, but many, like Beverly Scherrens, still wore them.

“I prefer to wear one," she said. "I just feel more comfortable right now. I know a lot of people aren’t wearing them, but I just feel more comfortable.” 

Scherrens said she would probably do so a little longer. 

In its statement, Kroger said it would "continue to respect the choice of individuals who prefer to continue to wear a mask." 

Employees in Kroger's pharmacies and clinics will be required to wear a mask because of the CDC guidance for health care settings, the news release said. 

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