Kroger stores across the country will require all customers to go masked starting July 22, the company announced Wednesday on Twitter.
However, a company spokesperson repeatedly declined to answer how the new policy would be enforced, whether noncompliant customers would be asked to leave or offered a mask, and what role employees would be expected to play in ensuring every guest was wearing a protective face covering.
Instead, the spokesperson said people who cannot wear masks should explore a different type of protection, such as a face shield, or take advantage of low-contact shopping options such as delivery and pick-up.
"To support all households during the COVID-19 pandemic, our grocery pickup service remains free," the spokesperson wrote.
They did not answer when asked what would happen if a customer became belligerent or confrontational in light of the new policy.
Masks have been required for Kroger employees since April.
