Scarborough, Maine —Hannaford Supermarkets announced effective Tuesday, March 24 that its stores will offer dedicated shopping hours for people age 60 and older, as well as those with compromised immune systems. Stores will open early from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. on Tuesday through Thursday to service this vulnerable population and allow a less crowded shopping environment, which enables better social distancing.

In addition, Hannaford is shortening its general store-operating hours starting Saturday, March 21 in order to provide for additional time to clean, stock shelves and give associates additional time to rest.  The new daily hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Providing a designated shopping period for seniors and at-risk individuals allows this population to shop prior to other customers being in the store. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), people who are 60 and over and those with compromised immune systems are most vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus. Although associates will not be requesting ID for entry, Hannaford urges the community to respect the intention for the early opening.

“In this time of extraordinary circumstances, it is more important than ever to find new ways to better serve our community,” said Ericka Dodge, Hannaford spokesperson. “These new hours will support all our associates and customers, especially those that are most-vulnerable.”

Both efforts are temporary due to the unprecedented demand and resulting need, attributed to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Each will be reviewed and revised as circumstances evolve.