Sainsbury's will open its doors only to those most at risk during the coronavirus crisis.
The supermarket chain has announced an hour-long shopping slot only for elderly and vulnerable customers, which will allow them to get their shopping more safely, in a less crowded store.
All Sainsbury's stores will open to these groups only for the first hour of trading on Thursday.
The shops will stay open for an extra hour into the evening, to ensure all customers are able to do their shopping.
Sainsbury's has also said customers over 70 and those with a disability will have priority access to online delivery slots from Monday, while the chain expands its "click and collect" service.
It comes as the chain announces restrictions on customer purchases to combat panic buying.
People will only be able to buy a maximum of three of any one product, and a maximum of two of the most in demand items including toilet paper, soap and UHT milk.
In a letter to customers, chief executive Mike Coupe said: "As we work to feed the nation, we are also focusing all of our efforts on getting as much food and other essential items from our suppliers, into our warehouses and onto shelves as we possibly can.
“We still have enough food for everyone – if we all just buy what we need for us and our families.”
From Thursday, Sainsbury's meat, fish and pizza counters, as well as supermarket cafes, will be closed.
Some Iceland stores have also introduced 'elderly only' shopping hours: this is not company-wide policy, but local stores are being allowed to take the measure if they believe it necessary.
The hours allow those most at risk to shop among smaller numbers, which may make them less likely to be exposed to the potentially deadly virus. Smaller numbers can also make the experience of shopping less stressful for those already struggling during the pandemic.
