Expressing grave concern with the current uptick in COVID-19 cases, the Supermarket Association of Trinidad and Tobago (SATT) has decided to put forth some new measures at supermarkets nationwide.
They announced that they will be implementing the following measures moving forward during the ‘lockdown’ period until the 23rd May, 2021:
With the lives and health of staff of paramount importance, SATT said it will be instructing staff to double mask immediately and to wear face shields and PPE where possible.
All promotions, advertising and specials have been suspended with immediate effect collectively by all stores and there will be the strict implementation of the one (1) member per family policy with exceptions to single household persons and other such exemptions as necessary.
In an effort to control crowds, the SATT will be engaging with TTPS to ask for SRP’s and traffic wardens to assist with crowd management.
They are asking the authorities to emphasize that it is an offence to congregate as such and we are asking where possible that persons should wait in their vehicles.
With the long wait to enter the supermarkets SATT is urging shoppers not to make daily visits to the supermarkets and shopping carts have been limited to adjust to the capacity of persons that can be safely circulated through stores as per recommendations.
SATT stated that the visibility of signage, pamphlet distribution and paraphernalia by the Ministry of Health will be increased to ensure increased compliance where necessary.
Member stores have already increased the factors including available registers to allow for the throughput of traffic circulation as smoothly as possible for faster turnaround period.
They’ve also mandated that the sale of large appliances and furniture be suspended immediately with the exception of mini appliances and household items.
They are also asking the government to support the supermarkets by advising the public to listen, adhere and comply with the policies in play by the supermarkets.
According to SATT: It is a well documented fact that every time a press conference is held by The Honourable Prime Minister to address further restrictions, there is a wild run on the supermarkets and retail food outlets. This trend, although baffling, leads us to advise that perhaps his press conferences be scheduled later in the evening.
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