Coronavirus: Meijer stores ask customers to temporarily stop bringing reusable bags

Starting March 1, single-use plastic bags will be banned from most stores in Austin. Reusable bags, including those made from cloth, paper and thick plastic, are OK, but whether retailers will ask customers to pay for the reusable plastic and paper bags is still up in the air.

Credit: Ricardo B. Brazziell

Credit: Ricardo B. Brazziell

Starting March 1, single-use plastic bags will be banned from most stores in Austin. Reusable bags, including those made from cloth, paper and thick plastic, are OK, but whether retailers will ask customers to pay for the reusable plastic and paper bags is still up in the air.

Grocery stores have been making various changes in an effort to keep facilities stocked and clean during the coronavirus pandemic and Meijer stores have just implemented an additional request.

Meijer stores throughout the Midwest are asking that customers temporarily refrain from bringing reusable bags into their stores, according to a release.

>> Coronavirus: What is in the $2 trillion stimulus bill; the $1,200 check explained

“This change is part of the retailer's ongoing efforts to ensure Meijer team members can do their jobs in the safest manner while ensuring the most sanitary conditions possible in its stores,” they said.

Dorothy Lane Market has not banned the use of reusable bags but they do offer instruction on how to use them properly on their coronavirus response page.

>> Coronavirus: Dr. Acton says data shows new symptoms, possibility of no fever

“If you are bringing in reusable bags, we kindly ask that you bag your own groceries and take extra precautions to properly clean them between uses.”

News Center 7 looked into Kroger Stores and Sam’s Club, neither appeared to be implementing the same restriction so far.

About the Author