OKLAHOMA CITY—Love’s Travel Stops announced it will stop requiring customers and employees who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to wear masks. The policy has been in place in Love’s stores across the country since July and will end June 15. Non-vaccinated customers and employees are still being asked to wear masks, reflecting U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.
“The past 15 months have been challenging for customers and team members, so we’re pleased the country has made such great strides against the pandemic to get to this point,” said Love’s President Shane Wharton, in a press release. “We will continue to be diligent about health and safety as ever before. We want to thank our customers for wearing masks in our stores and for the patience they’ve shown as we worked toward this decision.”
Some cities, counties and states will continue to require all employees and customers to wear masks, and the company will abide by these requirements. Love’s is continuing to prioritize the health and safety of customers and team members by performing stringent cleaning measures, practicing social distancing and using plexiglass at its locations. The company provides employees with a $75 incentive for voluntarily receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
Separately, Love’s Travel Stops opened it newest location yesterday in Holly Springs, Miss. The store, located off Interstate 22 (929 Highway No. 7 South), adds 70 jobs and 46 truck parking spaces to Marshall County, Love’s said. In honor of the grand opening, Love’s will donate $2,000 to Holly Springs High School.
“We’re excited to add our 18th clean and safe location for customers in Mississippi,” said Greg Love, co-CEO of Love’s. “Our team members will help get customers back on the road quickly and safely and are excited to serve Marshall County, professional truck drivers and four-wheel customers.”
Coronavirus Resources
NACS has compiled resources to help the convenience retail community navigate the COVID-19 crisis, including information about how to educate employees about the vaccines and other vaccine-related human resources advice. For news updates and guidance, visit our coronavirus resources page.