Kroger Co. said Wednesday that fully vaccinated customers and most fully vaccinated workers will not be required to wear a mask in stores, at distribution centers, and in other facilities starting May 20. Pharmacy and clinic associates will still be required to wear a mask. Non-vaccinated associates will still have to wear a mask, and the grocer is encouraging non-vaccinated customers to do so as well. Enhanced cleaning and social distancing messaging will continue, and the company will continue to offer a $100 incentive to get the vaccine. Kroger joins a list of retailers, including Walmart Inc. and Target Corp. that have relaxed their mask rules in light of the CDC’s latest guidelines. Kroger stock is up 14.8% for the year to date while the S&P 500 index is up 9.4% for the period.
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