Heading out for groceries in Hamilton? Don’t forget your mask
To mask, or not to mask?
That is the question several Hamilton grocers - and grocers everywhere, really - have had to address for customers whose conception of the typical shop experience has been upended amid COVID-19.
Canada's public health experts have fully recommended people wear non-medical face masks if they aren't sure they will be able to keep their distance from others, but the jury is still out in the grocery sector.
Of the city's 12 mainstream grocers, five either require or recommend the use of masks, while the remaining seven don't have mention of it in their coronavirus store policies.
Here's a primer of what you can expect at some of Hamilton's food and beverage retailers.
Costco
The membership-only wholesale grocer - which has location in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville - rejigged its COVID-19 store policy this week to recommend masks or face coverings for customers and guests.
The nonmandatory recommendation does not apply to children under the age of two or individuals unable to wear a mask due to a medical condition.
Costco is also handing out free paper masks for customers and guests who do not have one.
Shoppers Drug Mart
Despite citing public health opinion to wear a mask in public on its website, Shoppers's COVID-19 store policy does not currently mention any requirement of face coverings at its locations.
Sobeys and FreshCo
The supermarket chain grocers have yet to require or recommend masks for its shoppers. Both have implemented in-store customer limits to allow for proper social distancing.
Whole Foods
One of the first grocer chains to enforce the measure, Whole Foods began requiring customers to don face masks in early May. The chain also offers masks at no cost to customers upon entry.
Metro and Food Basics
Metro, which is also the parent company of Food Basics, recently began recommending customers wear masks while shopping. The measure is not mandatory. Distancing measures are in place.
LCBO
The liquor retailer does not require masks at its store location, though staff are provided with face shields while serving customers.
Walmart
Walmart Canada does not require masks for shopper entry. Customer capacity is being enforced to allow for proper social distancing.
Beer Store
While there's no requirement for masks at the Beer Store, the chain does advise customers on its website to be prepared to briefly remove a face covering at the request of a cashier confirming ID.
Longo's
As of May 4, Longo's began requiring face covers for customers. Shoppers who forgot a mask or don't have one are encouraged to contact a staff member upon entry.
Fortinos, No Frills and Superstore
The Loblaw-owned grocers do not require masks, although there are distancing measures in place.