Hy-Vee’s Updated Response to COVID-19

Hy-Vee has released its updated response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic:

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation continues to unfold throughout our 8-state region, Hy-Vee is continually implementing new changes in its stores in an effort to protect customers and employees.

Following guidelines made by the CDC and state officials, we have provided all of our employees with reusable masks for them to wear. Hy-Vee has been strongly encouraging employees to wear masks, however, following the recommendations of the CDC, Hy-Vee has not mandated it. Starting the week of April 26, that will change and the wearing of masks by employees will indeed be mandated at all retail locations.

Aisles Online
As demand for our Aisles Online program has grown significantly during this time, Hy-Vee has made some adjustments to the program in an effort to better serve you. Every day, we are opening more Aisles Online timeslots for customers to choose from. The company has also partnered with grocery delivery service DoorDash to offer 20,000 free deliveries to “high-risk” Hy-Vee customers. Free delivery can be redeemed using the promo code “SPECIALDELIVERY” at checkout. In addition, Hy-Vee has set a reserved Aisles Online pickup hour from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., seven days a week, for those who are considered “high risk.”

In-store efforts
To limit customer traffic in stores, Hy-Vee is recommending a one person per cart rule. In an effort to promote social distancing, the company has implemented one-way aisles and placed markers and signage throughout our stores. Temporary Plexiglass window panels are now installed at all of our check stands, including in pharmacies and convenience stores in an effort to limit direct contact among customers and employees. Panels are located both in front of and behind our store checkers.

Since the early beginning of this pandemic, we have become more efficient in stocking and sanitizing efforts. As a result, the company has extended store hours slightly.

The company is now offering a reserved shopping hour from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., seven days a week for customers ages 60 and older, expectant mothers and others who are considered “high risk.” Hy-Vee recently launched full-service fueling at all of the convenience store locations. The service is offered at select pumps for customers who wish to use the service. Hy-Vee has also introduced a new curbside pickup service called Mealtime To Go where customers can order hot, prepared foods along with take-and-bake meals.

In late March, Hy-Vee suspended the use of reusable bags in stores as an extra layer of precaution. Hy-Vee also suspended in-store can and bottle redemption services and return, refund and rain check policy.

Helping others
To help our communities, Hy-Vee announced a goal to raise $1 million to help supply food banks throughout our 8-state region. To contribute to this effort, you can donate a dollar or more at checkout or on Aisles Online, and Hy-Vee will match donations dollar for dollar, up to $500,000. The company has also partnered with some of its vendors and suppliers to donate product to food banks and local communities in need.