Grocery stores have been hit by lots of people as the concern of COVID-19 grows across Iowa.

Following Governor Kim Reynolds public health emergency proclamation that restricts some businesses like restaurants only offering carry-out or drive-through options, to closing other facilities like community centers, movie theaters and senior citizen centers, but leaving other services like grocery stores open. However some grocery stores have decided to alter their business hours.

Hy-Vee Director of Public Relations Christina Gayman says starting today, all Hy-Vee stores will be closing at 8pm and tomorrow hours of operation will be from 8am-8pm seven days per week until further notice. She notes the change is to give employees time to restock high demand items and give time for them to be with families. Gayman adds, they have plenty of items like toilet paper and food items in supply.

“We are working closely with our suppliers to make sure we have enough supplies on hand to meet our shoppers needs. We are receiving daily, if not almost daily shipments at all stores. If you don’t see something, let’s just say in the afternoon when you get off of work, they’re likely being restocked overnight and it’ll be there the next day. So we’re encouraging people to obviously be prepared but not to panic (and) purchase what you need and know that we’ll be restocking as quickly as possible.”

Gayman says all dining areas inside restaurants and convenience stores are now closed to the public and will only serve carry-out options. 

Fareway is also adjusting its hours to better suit the needs of customers. Starting today, the store will be open from 8-9am for those 65 and older, those  with serious chronic medical conditions, and those with underlying medical conditions that have increased risk to the coronavirus and then the store is open from 9am-7pm to the public until further notice.