Category: Autos

Considered an essential business, AutoZone stores will stay open as other companies around the country are forced to shut their doors. Here’s what the company’s doing to keep people safe during the pandemic.

As a cautionary measure taken due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Memphis-based auto parts retailer is no longer allowing employees inside customers’ cars. Now, the customer is the one using an OBD (on-board diagnostics) reader to get an engine light reading, while the employee guides them through the process.

The step is one of the many AutoZone has taken in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, as part of an effort to protect both customers and employees. Considered an essential business, its stores will stay open as other companies around the country are forced to shut their doors.

“You know, it’s an extremely difficult time for everybody,” said David McKinney, VP of government and community relations for AutoZone. “As an essential business, we understand the role we must play during these tough times.”

In addition to keeping employees outside of customer vehicles, the company has adjusted hours for most stores — with the exception of hub stores and mega hub stores. Shops will open at either 7:30 a.m. or 8 a.m. — depending on the location — and close at 6:30 p.m.

Comparatively, stores typically close at 9 p.m. or 10 p.m.

Employees must now wear gloves at all times, and disinfect the store — especially shelves, parts, counter tops, and other areas that receive a lot of contact.

Only 10 people are allowed in the store at a time.

Source: Considered an essential business, AutoZone stores remain open. – Memphis Business Journal