Dear Co-op members and shoppers,

Earlier this month, we sent out a survey regarding our current mask policy. The responses from this survey were quite polarizing but ultimately helped us devise a plan on how to move forward. This decision has never been an easy one. We understand that many of you have come to rely on the Co-op as a safe place to shop and have appreciated our enforcement of masks throughout the pandemic. We also understand that as the guidance from the CDC, New York State, and our county’s Public Health Department has now changed, we too have to consider adjustments to our policy. Being one of the few grocery stores that still requires mask wearing has complicated our ability to do business successfully and we feel we are no longer in a position to enforce masking. We have a duty to our member-owners to remain competitive and ensure that the Co-op can continue to thrive well into the future.

At the time of this writing, our current COVID-19 community level is considered “low” risk. Using that data, the survey results, as well as employee input has brought us to a decision. While masks are still very much encouraged and appreciated – beginning Monday, April 4th, the Co-op will no longer require masks in the store. The same policy will also apply to our employees. However, we will still enforce masks in the store from 8 am to 10 am for the immunocompromised or those who feel more comfortable shopping in a fully masked environment. We will continue to provide masks at the door for those who prefer to wear one and our curbside service will remain available. Public health and safety has always been very important to us and we care deeply for the vulnerable members of our community, so we hope that these efforts will serve as a means to make everyone feel welcome and supported in our store. Please note that should our community level reach “medium” or “high” again, we may reinstate our policy to prevent further community spread. 

We have appreciated the community’s understanding, patience, and cooperation with our policy and hope that you will remain supportive of our mission of making local, organic, and healthy food available to all by continuing to shop at the Co-op.

Sincerely,

The Potsdam Food Co-op Staff