RICHMOND, Va. -- While ABC stores will remain open in Virginia amid the coronavrus outbreak, they will do so with reduced operating hours.
Virginia ABC announced all stores in the commonwealth will now be open from noon to 7 p.m., seven days a week, starting Friday, March 27.
“Given the expanding nature of the coronavirus to other areas of the commonwealth, after consulting with the Virginia Department of Health, we believe these adjustments to our business practices will reinforce measures already in place to keep everyone safe and mitigate the impact of this virus on our employees and customers,” said Virginia ABC Chief Executive Officer Travis Hill.
The limited hours were already in place for 24 Virginia ABC retail outlets in the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson and Williamsburg, and the counties of James City and York.
“Reducing the time the stores will be open to customers allows staff time to stock shelves, as well as clean and thoroughly disinfect store surfaces to protect employees and customers,”” said a Virginia ABC spokesperson. “Additionally, the limited operating hours enable more flexibility in staffing.”
Officials encourage residents to practice social distancing and reduce time spent in stores by placing their order online.