Budget retailer Aldi has announced emergency workers will be given dedicated shopping time at its stores and given priority at its checkouts.
In the news confirmed this afternoon Aldi also confirmed it would be rewarding its store and distribution staff with a 10% bonus to thank them all their hard work during this busy time.
In the past few weeks, many shelves across supermarkets have been left empty as many shoppers stockpile and panic buy.
The new hours for NHS workers and those working for the police or fire service means they will be able to get essentials before anyone else.
Starting this Sunday, March 29 emergency service workers will be able to visit their local Aldi stores from 9.30am - 10am.
Eligible customers will be able to take priority at checkouts when they open at 10am. Aldi is advising ID will be required to gain early entry into stores.
It follows Asda and Tesco who have also altered their opening hours to help those working on the front line of the current coronavirus crisis.
Other measures which Aldi has already put in place across stores to help with demand:
· Aldi has made a number of financial commitments to key partners, including Neighbourly, which distributes surplus food and other donations to those in need, Teenage Cancer Trust, and Age UK
· All nappies and paper products (ie. toilet/kitchen roll) are restricted to two items per customer. All other products will remain restricted to four items per customer, with the exception of non-food Specialbuys, Easter products and fresh flowers which have no restrictions
· All stores’ opening hours have been shortened slightly to close at 8pm, instead of 10pm, to give staff some additional rest and allow the stores to be restocked at their best every day
