FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Dean R. Argo
(334) 213-6330
Out of concern for the public
welfare, and after consultation with the Governor’s Office, health experts and
others, the ABC Board will today implement operational changes, including closing 78 retail locations, that will
provide better safety measures for our store and warehouse employees, patrons,
licensees and the general public.
“Due to increasing health concerns and staffing requirements, closing
some of our stores will provide the greatest amount of employee/customer
protection, while ensuring maximum productivity and efficiency,” said ABC Board
Administrator Mac Gipson. “We understand that this is a difficult time and we
are asking that everyone be as patient and understanding as possible. Please
know that these plans are temporary and subject to change as circumstances
warrant.”
Stores scheduled to close will be cease operations at the end of
business today, Tuesday, March 17, 2020.
Personnel currently assigned to “closing” stores will be temporarily
re-assigned to the “open” stores in their area. ABC Stores that remain open will operate
during the hours of 12pm-7pm, with the exception of wholesale only stores,
whose hours will be 8am-5pm.
Other operational changes specifically for patron and employee safety:
1.
Beginning Wednesday, March 18, all stores will operate as “over the
counter” stores in order to keep as much distance between patrons and store
personnel as possible. In an effort to reduce exposure, a mximum of five
customers will be allowed in the store at any given time.
2.
Customers will not be allowed to pull their own product. Store personnel
will ask customers for their order, retrieve the product(s), and bring the
item(s) to the counter for check out.
3.
Customers are asked to pay for their purchase with a credit card, if
possible. If cash must be used, customers should place the requested amount on
the counter and store personnel will return their change in the same manner.
5.
Employees will be required to wear gloves. Masks are optional, at this
time.
The ABC Board will send out updates as they occur. As always, please
check the ABC Board website (http://alabcboard.gov/) for store locations and other
operational updates.