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Customers who visit Walmart or Sam’s Club in the United States will be required to wear a face-covering when entering their stores starting July 20.

The company announced this in a blog post on Wednesday, saying that facial coverings would be necessary if you plan on going in the store to shop. They want to make things as safe as possible for both employees and customers, and they want things to be consistent from one store to another. Considering the fact that 65% of the 5000+ stores and clubs are in areas where face coverings are mandatory, it seems like an obvious move.

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The "current world climate can be quite overwhelming; nevertheless, I am encouraged by the hearts of others. I am optimistic due to my faith in people. I believe that the majority of people desire to showcase love and equality for all. Each day I see a team of associates at Walmart store #249 give maximum efforts to ensure that customers are taken care of – they also ensure that they take care of one another. I am encouraged by the actions of my leadership and peers, who are igniting a spark that will change the world. I am stronger because I am not in this alone. I am stronger because the weight of these trying times won’t last forever.” Aaron, we're stronger because you're a store manager who brings positivity and love to your store, your coworkers, our customers, and the community. Thank you.

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In the blog post, they speak about how they are not the first business to require face coverings. They consider it to be a simple step that everyone can take to keep others safe. They also realize that it is recommended by the CDC that “people wear cloth face coverings in public settings when around people outside of their household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.”

Training has been taking place to help employees of the stores and clubs to make the most of the new policy. They will also have signage displayed to help those who are entering the store. A “health ambassador” will be assigned to each entrance of the store to remind those who do not have a mask on.

The company said: “Our ambassadors will receive special training to help make the process as smooth as possible for customers. The ambassadors, identifiable by their black polo shirts, will work with customers who show up at a store without a face covering to try and find a solution.”

They also plan on staying with a single entrance to help things run as smoothly as possible. A similar process and complementary maks are also being provided by Sam’s Club.

Walmart does realize that there are many people who refuse to wear facemasks in stores, and they have gained a lot of attention. Although they acknowledge that people have differing opinions, they also say that it is important for the health and well-being of communities that they follow the guidelines instituted by the CDC and other health officials.