Publix has announced they are offering contactless pay to all of its stores. The rollout has been completed by the time of the writing of this article, as it was set to finish by Saturday, April 4.
Contactless pay is when a payment is made by putting their smartphone contactless pay-enabled payment card, such as a credit or debit card, near the contactless-enabled device. This process is done instead of swiping or inserting a card into the PIN pad. This digital payment method is in addition to the already present mobile pay option through the Publix app, which is still available for customers to use to finalize their purchases.
“In these unprecedented times, we recognized the need to make our customers’ trips to our stores faster and more efficient,” said Publix CEO Todd Jones in a press release. “By expediting this payment option, we will help customers reduce contact with commonly used surfaces like PIN pads.”
Publix has also enacted multiple measures to keep customers and associates safe while shopping. Some of these measures include:
- Increased cleaning efforts by regular cleaning of high-touch areas like carts, door handles, PIN pads, ATMs and vending machines.
- Installing plexiglass shields at all registers, pharmacies and customer service counters.
- Suspended samples, including the free cookie program, and the Aprons Cooking School classes.
- Moved high-touch condiments used regularly behind the service counter in stores with cafes.
- Reduced store hours to give extra time to the workers to clean the store
- Designated specific shopping hours for customers over the age of 65 to help them stay safe while also having time to shop.
- Installed signage and marked distances on the floor to point where customers must line up, as well as started intercom reminders to let customers know to maintain the recommended 6-foot distance between themselves and others.
- Gave store associates not in food-service roles, like baggers and cashiers, the option to wear gloves and masks.
- Implemented emergency pandemic pay for full-time and part-time workers who show symptoms of, are diagnosed of, caring for someone diagnosed with the virus or are self-quarantined due to the virus.
As mentioned above, Public has changed its hours to help staff better clean the store but also restock the shelves with needed items. The store hours are currently 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The pharmacy hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. for weekdays and Saturday and Sunday is different depending on certain stores.