Bi-LO to install Plexiglass partitions at registers, customer service desks

Bi-LO in Sumter will be installing protective Plexiglass partitions to enforce social distancing protocols to protect employees and customers from COVID-19.

The store’s parent company, Southeastern Grocers, announced the measure on Thursday across all its stores, which includes Bi-LO, Fresco y Mas, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie. The partitions will be installed at all store registers, customer service desks, pharmacies and liquor store counters.

Installation in all stores is underway, according to a news release, and will continue through Friday, April 3.

Stores will also implement additional social distancing protocols in accordance with CDC guidelines, which are to maintain a 6-foot distance between people along with regulated in-store occupancy standards.

All stores will initiate a two-car-length distance between customers at checkout by using floor markers to encourage social distancing.

Bi-LO and all of Grocers’ stores will continue to offer modified store and pharmacy hours to provide the cleanest, safest possible store experience as well as employment opportunities for those in need throughout the Southeast.

Seniors and high-risk customers are exclusively invited to shop at Bi-LO from 8-9 a.m. Monday-Friday. Also, all pharmacy locations will open at 8 a.m. on weekdays to allow these same customers extra time to fill prescriptions or seek counseling with expert pharmacists. On weekends, pharmacy locations will be open at the usual time of operations, and pharmacies are also continuing to provide flu and pneumonia vaccines.

All Southeastern Grocers stores will continue to prioritize hiring people who have been laid off or seen their hours reduced as a result of mandated restaurant and store closures. To apply, visit Bi-LO at 2055 Wedgefield Road or go to www.segrocers.com/careers.

Bi-Lo closes nightly at 8 p.m. Call (803) 938-9926.