Lunds & Byerlys: 1st Hour Is For 'Higher Risk' Shoppers

TWIN CITIES, MN — Lunds & Byerlys is working to make sure shoppers can still get what they need while avoiding the spread of the new coronavirus. All Lunds & Byerlys stores will be open from the reduced hours of 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day to allow for deep cleaning, restocking, and to keep staff well-rested.

The first hour of each day is dedicated only for shoppers who have the highest chance of getting seriously ill.

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"At this time, we are asking all customers to respect our request of having the opening hour of 7 to 8 a.m. each day reserved for those shoppers who are at a higher risk of severe illness by COVID-19, which includes older adults and those who have compromised immune systems," the grocery said in a statement.

"In doing so, our intent is to provide an opportunity for those individuals to be the first to shop after our overnight cleaning and stocking so they have increased access to essential products."

Gov. Tim Walz signed an executive order Monday enacting the temporary closure of all Minnesota restaurants and bars to dine-in customers. He also ordered the temporary closure of public places, including theaters, museums, fitness centers, and community clubs.

Grocery stores were encouraged to remain open, however.

Read more: Coronavirus: See Full List Of Businesses Ordered To Close In MN