Hy-Vee announced Tuesday that it will distribute more than 3 million free masks to customers without one starting next week.According to a news release, the mask giveaway is part of a new initiative called “Mask It Up to Shut COVID Down. It’s Your Choice.”Beginning July 27, Hy-Vee employees stationed outside store doors will hand out masks.Stores will also display signs to remind shoppers about the importance of mask use.Hy-Vee said it is not requiring shoppers to wear masks because some people cannot wear them for medical reasons. The AARP reports that 28 of the top 40 U.S. retailers require shoppers to wear masks, including Walmart, Target and Whole Foods.Matthew Mitchell, a Drake University Professor who specializes in international businesses, said business could face financial impacts for their decision on mask requirements.”If they see that they are in a safe environment that would maybe encourage patrons to come in to buy from your establishment,” Mitchell said. “On the other hand, if they don’t agree with the stance that you’ve taken it could negatively impact their business as well.”Hy-Vee said its stores in states with state and local mask mandates abide by the requirements.KCCI reached out to Fareway and Price Chopper regarding any plans for mask requirements but did not hear back.
DES MOINES, Iowa —
Hy-Vee announced Tuesday that it will distribute more than 3 million free masks to customers without one starting next week.
According to a news release, the mask giveaway is part of a new initiative called “Mask It Up to Shut COVID Down. It’s Your Choice.”
Beginning July 27, Hy-Vee employees stationed outside store doors will hand out masks.
Stores will also display signs to remind shoppers about the importance of mask use.
Hy-Vee said it is not requiring shoppers to wear masks because some people cannot wear them for medical reasons.
The AARP reports that 28 of the top 40 U.S. retailers require shoppers to wear masks, including Walmart, Target and Whole Foods.
Matthew Mitchell, a Drake University Professor who specializes in international businesses, said business could face financial impacts for their decision on mask requirements.
“If they see that they are in a safe environment that would maybe encourage patrons to come in to buy from your establishment,” Mitchell said. “On the other hand, if they don’t agree with the stance that you’ve taken it could negatively impact their business as well.”
Hy-Vee said its stores in states with state and local mask mandates abide by the requirements.
KCCI reached out to Fareway and Price Chopper regarding any plans for mask requirements but did not hear back.
