Dollar General announced it is adjusting its trading hours during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
The company said that starting on Tuesday, it is “strongly encouraging that the first hour of operations each day be dedicated solely for the shopping needs of senior customers, who are one of the groups most vulnerable to the COVID-19 coronavirus.”
The stores will close an hour early to give employees the ability to clean stores and restock.
“We appreciate our customers’ understanding of our decision and request they visit our stores later in the morning to allow at-risk populations the ability to purchase the items they need at affordable prices,” said Todd Vasos, Dollar General’s CEO, in a statement.
“During these unprecedented times, Dollar General is diligently working to meet the ongoing needs of our customers and communities. We are proud to live our mission and provide customers with everyday low prices on the household essentials that are used and replenished most often.”
Several other retailers have announced similar measures for at-risk groups such as elderly people or those with underlying health problems.
Meanwhile, establishments including McDonald’s and Starbucks have announced they would close down dining services and will only provide delivery and takeout.
It came after President Donald Trump on Monday recommended Americans avoid crowds of 10 people or more to curb the spread of the new coronavirus, which emerged last year in Wuhan, China.
