Sainsbury’s issues statements on face masks to Sheffield shoppers after Morrisons changes rules

Shopworkers’ union Usdaw said that it had been “inundated” with complaints from its members – who are classed as key workers – and called for supermarkets to revert to more stringent in-store measures.

Retail bosses have also suggested that further police support is needed to help enforce measures, which they say are leading to an increase in abuse towards staff.

The prime minister said people needed to “do the right thing” by adhering to social distancing when out.

“We need to enforce the rules in supermarkets. When people are getting takeaway drinks, in cafes, then they need to avoid spreading the disease there, avoid mingling too much,” he said.

England’s chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said that supermarket staff would not be initially prioritised for vaccinations unless they also fell into the highest vulnerability categories.

Supermarket chain Morrisons said on Monday that customers who refuse to wear a mask without a medical exemption will be told to leave stores.

Chief executive David Potts said: “Those who are offered a face covering and decline to wear one won’t be allowed to shop at Morrisons unless they are medically exempt.

“Our store colleagues are working hard to feed you and your family, please be kind.”

Tesco and Sainsbury’s said safety remains their “highest priority”, and that customers were given regular reminders to follow the rules.

Sainsbury’s later confirmed it will post trained security guards at shop entrances to “challenge” any customers not wearing a mask or shopping in groups.

Chief executive Simon Roberts: “I’ve spent a lot of time in our stores reviewing the latest situation over the last few days and on behalf of all my colleagues, I am asking our customers to help us keep everyone safe.

“The vast majority of customers are shopping safely, but I have also seen some customers trying to shop without a mask and shopping in larger family groups.

“Please help us to keep all our colleagues and customers safe by always wearing a mask and by shopping alone. Everyone’s care and consideration matters now more than ever.”

A spokeswoman for Sainsbury’s added guidance remained “shop alone if you can” and customers with children or carers would not be refused entry.

Tesco said it was still enforcing social distancing practices in store but was not looking yet at reintroducing measures such as one-way aisles.

“The safety of our customers and colleagues is our top priority and we already have extensive social distancing measures in our stores to ensure everyone can shop safely with us,” the store said on Twitter.

“We are asking all our customers to wear a face covering when visiting our stores and have prominent signs in place to inform customers of the rules.

“However, there may be some customers who are unable to wear a face covering for medical or safety reasons and we have asked our colleagues to respect that and to not challenge them directly.”

Local authorities have also promised to work with the Government to enforce rules in supermarkets.