Costco, Trader Joes and Walmart Drop Mask Rule for Fully Vaccinated Customers and Employees

On Friday, Costco, Trader Joe’s and Walmart all dropped its mask policy after updated guidance was issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

COSTCO

According to Costco,  they revised their mask policy to say in Costco locations where the state or local jurisdiction does not have a mask mandate, they would allow members and guests who are fully vaccinated to enter Costco without a face mask or face shield. They also will not require proof of vaccination, but we ask for members’ responsible and respectful cooperation with this revised policy.

Face coverings will still be required in healthcare settings, including Pharmacy, Optical, Hearing Aid. Costco continues to recommend that all members and guests, especially those who are at higher risk, wear a mask or shield.

Trader Joes

Trader Joe’s is dropping its mask mandate for fully vaccinated shoppers.

“We encourage customers to follow the guidance of health officials, including, as appropriate, CDC guidelines that advise customers who are fully vaccinated are not required to wear masks while shopping,” the company said in a statement.

WALMART

According to Walmart, their statement said it was providing $75 to US Field associates  as a “thank you” for getting vaccinated.  They also will said fully vaccinated associates will not need to wear a mask at work starting May 18. This applies to all facilities, including our stores, clubs, distribution centers, fulfillment centers and offices. Unvaccinated associates must still wear face coverings.

As of Friday, vaccinated customers and members are welcome to shop without a mask, and we will continue to request that non-vaccinated customers and members wear face coverings in our stores and clubs. We will update the signage in our facilities to reflect this.

Masks will also continue to be required by some city and state ordinances, and we will follow those requirements. There may also be local conditions, regulatory changes or laws that affect our guidance. We will be communicating with your local store, club or facility management team as regulations change so they can keep you informed.

Businesses keeping the mask policy for now:

• Bed Bath & Beyond
• Best Buy
• CVS
• Dollar General
• Home Depot
• HomeGoods
• Starbucks
• Target
• TJ Maxx
• Walt Disney (loosen mask policy later this summer)

Both the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention,  along with the white House announced Thursday that if you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you can resume activities without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal or territorial laws, incl. local business and workplace guidance.