Apple begins to relax mask requirement at some retail stores
Due to declining COVID-19 case numbers and increased vaccinations, Apple has announced in an internal memo to retail employees that the company, for a second time, would begin to drop the mask mandates at some if its retail locations starting this week.
The change will take place beginning at more than 100 of the company’s about 270 stores across the U.S. before gradually expanding to additional stores in the coming days. The mandate will be removed at some stores in states including California, Florida, Arizona, New York, Louisiana, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
Apple notes that the new policy will apply to all shoppers regardless of their COVID vaccination status. Although, because “team members have longer interactions in store and are in close proximity throughout the day,” employees will still be required to wear a mask while inside the store.
After careful review, the Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) team, along with leadership, have determined it’s safe to update our guidance on masks for customers in your store. The positive trends in vaccinations, testing, and case counts for your area have made this change possible.
The health and safety of our teams and customers remains our highest priority. We will continue to monitor local guidance and Covid data in your area throughout the holiday season, and make adjustments as needed.