Target has announced a few notable changes during the COVID-19 outbreak, which include an adjustment to store hours and a period of time designated for vulnerable shoppers.

The retailer put out a press release on Tuesday, detailing plans to reduce store hours starting on March 18. The release explains that their stores will open at normally scheduled times, but will close at 9 pm. For stores that close before 9 pm, they will close at their normal time. This early closure is being used for team members to do additional cleaning and restocking.

Also included in the release are weekly designated times for vulnerable shoppers. Starting March 18, the first shopping hour of every Wednesday will be reserved at Target locations nationwide for vulnerable guests. Target's release says this includes elderly and those with underlying health concerns. The retailer is encouraging other guests to plan their shopping trips around this timeframe.

Target's release also detailed other items of note related to COVID-19 for both customers and employees:

  • Adding payroll hours to support more rigorous cleaning routines, including ensuring guest-facing surfaces like checklanes and touchscreens are cleaned at least every 30 minutes.
  • Leveraging its supply chain to prioritize and fast-track the flow of products that are in highest demand across key categories, including cleaning products, paper products, food, over-the-counter medicine and baby products.
  • Making back-up care available for all U.S. team members by waiving eligibility requirements, copays and other program details to ensure team members with caregiving needs can take care of their families during this time.
  • Waiving the company’s absenteeism policy and covering up to 14 days of quarantine and illness pay for team members with a confirmed case of COVID-19, as well as continuing to offer standing benefits like Paid Family Leave and free counseling services.
  • Closing all Target Cafés, Pizza Huts, Snack Bars, Beverage Bars, Starbucks seating areas and condiment stations in stores.

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