Many Arizona stores require masks

Retailers institute safety steps as more businesses are reopening in state

As Arizona approaches the end of its stay-at-home order and businesses across the state prepare to reopen, some companies and businesses are enacting their own rules for how customers should prepare to step back through their doors.

Here is a list of businesses mandating that customers wear face masks or other protective coverings inside their stores: are also offered gloves and personal face shields for additional protection.

Since Monday, May 4, all shoppers over the age of 2 have been required to wear a face mask that covers their mouth and nose while shopping at Costco.

However, according to a statement on the company’s website, that requirement does not apply to children under the age of 2 or individuals who are unable to wear a face covering due to medical conditions.

“Costco employees are required to wear face coverings, and now we are asking that Costco members do so too,” the statement said. “We know some members may find this inconvenient or objectionable, but under the circumstances we believe the added safety is worth any inconvenience.”

The new requirement comes amid other “guest policy” additions, such as the limit of two people per Costco card entering the store.

“As part of a community, we believe this simple act of safety and courtesy is one that Costco members and employees can undertake together,” the statement said. “However, the use of a face covering should not be seen as a substitute for social distancing. Please continue to observe rules regarding appropriate distancing while at Costco.”

Pueblo Life, a plant nursery located near the intersection of Pierce and 10th Streets in Phoenix, announced on Instagram that they will be returning to their normal Monday through Friday hours with a mask requirement.

“We’ll request everyone who comes in wears a mask and is courteous and aware, leaves their dogs at home and touches only what you intend to buy, but we hope to have some sense of normalcy and good music going,” according to the Instagram post.

In addition, the shop said they will maintain social distancing guidelines, disinfect their screens between customers and other surfaces throughout the day. However, they will not be offering repotting services, nor a public restroom.

“Other than that, this whole entire ordeal has been stressful and weird and scary and we hope to provide some solace in a hot city,” the post said.

Living Spaces locations across the state are requiring all guests wear face masks and undergo a temperature

check before entering their showrooms.

A statement on their website notes some showrooms are open, while others require appointments. Appointments are limited to two guests each.

“We are providing our stores with additional cleaning supplies and dedicating more hours each day to cleaning all surfaces, particularly those in high traffic areas such as our employee tablets, counters, restrooms and break rooms,” a company statement said. “We are also asking that our team members maintain a safe distance from each other and our guests as they assist you in our showrooms and go about their daily work.”

Additionally, a “strict sick policy” is now in place and any employee who is not feeling well is to stay home. For guests’ safety, the Kids’ Fun Rooms within all open stores will remain closed, and the serving of cookies and other refreshments is suspended, the statement said.

Guitar Center

Guitar Centers have reopened their Arizona stores and are doing so with new safety measures to “assure the protection of associates and customers” — masks included.

According to the company’s website, all Guitar Center locations are requesting customers wear a “proper mask or face covering.”

In addition, they have increased “thorough and regular cleaning” throughout their stores, are limiting the number of customers allowed in the store at a time and will provide hand sanitizer before the handling of any merchandise.

The website also requests all customers prepare to “practice social distancing by staying six feet away from others.”

Zia Records

Zia Records has locations in Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler and Mesa, and all are requiring face masks to enter the store, according to their website.

The company asks customers also keep a “safe distance of 6 feet between employees and fellow customers while shopping and in the checkout line.” Curbside pickup is also available for those who do not wish to enter the store.

In addition, their website notes they have the “right to refuse business to anyone.”