Cashiers and customers are further protected by new plexiglass shields at Northern stores including St. Theresa Point.

As a response to the COVID-19 situation, The North West Company’s banner stores have been implementing additional safety measures – such as installing plexiglass shields and providing personal protective equipment for cashiers at the check-out stands.

The clear separation at the tills is crucial to practicing limited interpersonal contacts. Staff members are encouraged to wear disposable gloves, which can help reduce hands picking up germs and then touching the face unintentionally. Disinfectant wipes and alcohol-based hand sanitizers are provided to maintain the workstation’s cleanliness.

During this difficult time, The North West Company understands customers’ heightened demand for a reliable grocery service and supply. The health of every community member – including our staff on the frontlines – is our utmost priority.

Northern and NorthMart stores have also stepped up in various ways that are unique to their individual locations. In St. Theresa Point, MB, a band constable has been hired for a special task – extending the protective measures to community members by providing hand sanitizers to shoppers as they enter the store. 

Pictured above is newly appointed band constable Kevin Flett giving hand sanitizer to individuals entering the Northern store in St. Theresa Point.

Many Northern store managers from different communities shared that plexiglass shields and other changes like limits on high-demand items, customer flow control, adjusted hours, reminder signage, as well as flexible ordering and delivery services have been effective in mitigating the risk and consequences of COVID-19. They affirmed that these procedures will be in place as long as needed to maintain consistent store operations and to support their communities.