INDIANAPOLIS — Kroger announced Wednesday that it will begin requiring all customers to wear face masks in their stores beginning July 22.
"With the increase in #COVID19 cases across the country, we are committed to doing our part to help reduce the spread of the virus," Kroger wrote on Twitter.
The mask requirement will include all customers in all stores across the U.S. Small children are exempt from the mask requirement.
Customers who are unable to wear face masks due to medical reasons are being encouraged to consider an alternative option like a face shield or facial covering.
Kroger says if some customers are unable to wear a mask or an alternative design, they request that they use e-commerce services like pickup or delivery. To support all households during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kroger's grocery pickup service remains free.
Kroger's mask announcement comes the same day that Walmart and Sam's Club announced its new mask requirement.