Sainsbury's Says It Won't 'Challenge' Customers Who Try And Shop Without A Mask

Sainsbury's has said it won't 'challenge' customers who enter its stores without a face mask when new rules come into force in England later this week.

Responding to a question from a shopper on Twitter, Sainsbury's replied: "We won't be challenging customers without a mask when they enter or when they are in store since they may have a reason not to wear a mask."

Sainsbury's/Twitter

Sainsbury's has made the announcement just days ahead of new laws that come into play in the England on Friday 24 July, that require people to wear face coverings while in shops.

The government said shoppers in England could be fined a £100 by police and refused entry by retailers. In Scotland the fines start at £60.

The rules state that people don't have to wear a face covering if they have 'any physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability' and that wearing a mask would cause 'severe distress'.

In response to the new rules, supermarket chain Aldi has said its customers will be required to wear face masks.

In an email, Aldi chief executive Giles Hurley said: "Last week, the Government announced that face coverings will be compulsory in shops in England from 24th July and, for that reason, you will need to wear a face covering to enter one of our stores from this date.

PA

"Even as the country opens up again, I know many are concerned about safety and do not want the steps we are taking to move forward, to mean we take a step backwards in the fight against the virus.

"To those vulnerable customers, please rest assured that the measures we have introduced to give you safe access to affordable food, such as early opening times from Monday to Saturday, will continue and our home delivery grocery parcels are still available to purchase.

"It has been heartwarming to see customers remembering that not all disabilities and health conditions are visible, and being considerate of others who may not be able to socially distance or wear a mask."

You can find out more about the new rules on the government website here.

Topics: UK News, England, Coronavirus

Claire Reid

Claire is a journalist at LADbible who, after dossing around for a few years, went to Liverpool John Moores University. She graduated with a degree in Journalism and a whole load of debt. When not writing words in exchange for money she is usually at home watching serial killer documentaries surrounded by cats. You can contact Claire at [email protected]

@ClaireReid19