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Covid-19

COVID-19 Update


 

 

Posted: 12 September 2022

Four Square thanks customers and teams as COVID traffic light system ends

 

Kia ora,

 

Following the Government’s announcement the Covid-19 Protection Framework (traffic light system) will end at 11.59pm on Monday, 12 September 2022.

 

Four Square says a very big thank you to all our teams and customers for their continued support and mahi with keeping New Zealanders safe throughout the pandemic.

 

The end of the traffic light system means all government mask wearing requirements have been removed, so customers and team members aren’t required to wear masks while shopping at Four Square –  but you can if you want, or need to. 

 

Customers and team members who test positive for Covid-19 are currently required to isolate for seven days, so please get a friend or neighbour to shop for you if you need groceries.

 

We want you to know while COVID-19 is still in our communities, we’ll continue to focus on, and take all the appropriate measures, to provide a safe shopping experience and workplace.

  

Thank you so much for all your support along the way, we really do appreciate it, this is a real milestone, you’ve been incredible.

 

Ngā mihi maioha

 

Posted: 28 February 2022

FOODSTUFFS TO RETAIL RAPID ANTIGEN TESTS, KEEPING NEW ZEALANDERS SAFE AND FED

The Government has approved the retail sale of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) through Foodstuffs' stores, following last week’s shift to Phase 3 of the RED setting of the COVID-19 Protection Framework.

 We’re moving quickly to make these available for customers as our priority continues to be keeping our customers and team members safe, and working hard to deliver essential supplies to New Zealanders.

Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) - We’ll be selling in retail

As part of Foodstuffs commitment to be HereforNZ, Rapid Antigen Tests will be sold at cost price at PAK’nSAVE, New World and Four Square stores and could be available in stores as early as next week.

Foodstuffs will sell the Orient Gene Rapid COVID-19 Self Test 5-pack ($32.99 per pack) and the Ecotest COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Nasal Pen 2-pack ($19.99 per pack).

Rapid Antigen Testing is also proving a valuable surveillance tool within our co-operatives. Our teams in supply chain and our distribution centres are taking regular Rapid Antigen Tests which is reducing the risk of transmission at our sites and giving our people extra reassurance we’re doing all we can to keep them safe at work.

Phase 3

Operating in Phase 3 means we’re maintaining our support towards slowing the spread of Omicron and protecting our vulnerable communities. As has been the case throughout the pandemic, we’re prepared and as ready as we can be for what the Omicron peak brings. We have plenty of stock in our distribution centres and we’ve been cross training and employing more people so we can keep the stock flowing to our stores and onto shelves. 

Keeping our customers and teams safe

We’re keeping all the tools we have in place to help keep people safe, including increased hygiene and sanitation measures, physical distancing in store, mask use for teams and customers and scanning the QR app. 

Changes you may see in-store

As more team members are required to isolate you may start to see some changes to how we operate in-store, this is to make sure we can keep our teams and customers safe and the stock flowing onto shelf, so what you need is there when you do your shopping. 

During the Omicron peak, we may reduce the opening times of individual stores, please check our websites and your local store’s Facebook page for the latest up-to-date information.

We may also limit the number of products customers can buy in one shop, so everyone has a fair opportunity to get what they need.  This will vary from store to store.

Our Kiwi suppliers and manufacturers are also doing their best to keep the stock flowing, if your favourite item isn’t available when you shop, please take the opportunity to try something different.

Access to groceries if you’re unwell

As Government has advised, household contacts of individuals diagnosed as positive with Covid-19 are required to isolate and we also ask customers to keep playing their part by using alternative methods to get their groceries instead of shopping in-store if they are unwell.

If customers are unable to come into our stores because they are vulnerable, feeling unwell, or are isolating at home, we encourage them to ask a friend or neighbour to shop for them, or use our online and Click & Collect services, where available. Additionally, Student Volunteer Army have reinstated their grocery delivery service in partnership with New World, predominantly to support people with COVID-19. To access this service go to www.shop.sva.org.nz [shop.sva.org.nz] or call 0800 005 902. 

Getting the best value

Supporting New Zealanders to find value with the rise in the cost of living is a challenge we take on every day with passion. We’re not increasing prices as a direct result of COVID-19, we haven’t before, and we won’t now.

Food prices have always varied with product demand, seasonality, weather, and if the product is on or off special playing a role.

We know getting the best value is really important to customers right now, so we suggest shopping seasonally, comparing prices on-line and checking out our websites and apps for more budget busting ideas.

Foodstuffs is 100% locally owned and operated so our store owners know their communities and their customers and go the extra mile to meet their needs. Over the past two years we’ve continued to keep all of our stores open, and we’re so proud of that. We’re a small country and we’ve done well through this pandemic by working together and respecting each other, and we’ll need to continue to do that. 

 

Foodstuffs to retail rapid antigen tests

Posted: 23 January 2022

Foodstuffs Ready For Nationwide Move To Red

Following Government’s announcement that New Zealand will move to the RED setting of the Covid-19 Protection Framework from 11.59pm on Sunday 23 January, all New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square stores across Aotearoa remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders continue to have their grocery needs met safely.

Keeping our customers and team members safe, while making sure there’s a constant supply of essentials continues to be our priority and we kindly ask New Zealanders to play their role in ensuring we can do this by following the protocols and advice in place.

Our message to New Zealanders in a nutshell is: It’s essential to #shopnormal, mask-up, keep 1m physical distance while shopping – and remember to be kind to each other and our teams.

We are well prepared for NZ to continue to shop safety in RED
Our teams have been actively preparing for Omicron and we have been building our stock levels in anticipation of a move to RED. We have enough for everyone as long as we all shop normally, there is no need to stock-up, even if preparing to self-isolate.

Since the Delta outbreak in August last year, all stores have been operating under heightened health and safety protocols, which includes increased hygiene and sanitation measures, physical distancing in store, mask use for teams and customers and scanning the QR app. These protocols are all in place and designed to look after our teams and customers and provide a safe shopping environment as we continue to navigate this global pandemic.

We encourage all customers to play their role and help us all keep safe while we’re in RED by nominating one person in the household to shop, scanning in using the government app, or signing in at the door - and to nominate a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell.

As supermarkets are an essential service, customers don’t need to be vaccinated to shop in our stores.

Essential while shopping in store
When we are in RED, it’s essential to wear a mask (unless exempt) and maintain a 1 metre physical distance. As the Omicron variant is particularly transmissible, we ask customers to be extremely vigilant, making sure their masks are well fitted and worn correctly - and to take personal responsibility for ensuring they maintain a 1-metre physical distance.

Gaps on the shelves and queues at the supermarket can be caused by buying more than is needed. Over the last couple of years, we’ve proved our fully integrated supply chain is extremely robust and our buying and supply chain teams will ensure there is enough for everyone, as long as we continue to #shopnormal during RED.

Stores may place limits on certain items to ensure there is fair opportunity for everyone when they shop with us, this will be on a store-by-store basis, depending on customer demand. All specials, if they are available, will continue to stay in place.

One of the ongoing effects of COVID-19 is the global supply chain has been lumpy for some time and we expect this to continue throughout 2022, so if there’s a gap on the shelf on occasion - and it’s an imported product, it’s likely held up and will be back in stock soon, please take the opportunity to try alternatives.

Together we’ve got this – #Shopnormal and Be Kind
Foodstuffs has served New Zealanders for nearly 100 years and we’re grateful for the privilege to continue throughout what’s turned out to be an extraordinary time in our lives. Our 100% New Zealand owned and operated co-ops are planning to keep on providing New Zealanders with great value and choice whatever the pandemic, or life, throws at us this year and beyond.

Together we’ve got this, be kind to each other and our teams - and #shopnormal.


Posted: 1 December 2021
Four Square stores continue to provide safe shopping environments as stores transition to Covid-19 Protection Framework

Following Government’s announcement that New Zealand will move to the Covid-19 Protection Framework (traffic light system), all Four Square stores remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders continue to have their grocery needs met safely.

All regions will move to the new system from 11.59pm Thursday 2 December, with Northland, Auckland, Taupō and Rotorua Lakes Districts, Kawerau, Whakatane, Ōpōtiki Districts, Gisborne District, Wairoa District, Rangitikei, Whanganui and Ruapehu Districts moving to ‘red’ and the rest of the North Island and the whole of the South Island moving to ‘orange’.

Our stores are prepped to continue offering a safe environment for our teams to operate and our customers to shop as the country transitions to this new normal.

Under the new framework, stores in both ‘red’ and ‘orange’ regions will continue to operate under heightened health and safety protocols, which have already been in operation since the Delta outbreak earlier this year. This includes increased hygiene and sanitation measures, physical distancing in store, mask use for teams and customers, and scanning the government tracker or QR app upon entry to the store.

These protocols are designed to look after our teams and customers and provide a safe shopping environment as we navigate this next step in the Government’s pandemic response. As supermarkets are an essential service, customers do not need to be vaccinated to shop in our stores.

We encourage everyone nationwide to always scan the COVID tracer app, maintain social distance, nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell.

Customer numbers continue to be restricted, so please be patient as you wait to shop for groceries. We want to remind everyone to please continue to #shopnormal so there are enough groceries for others.

We’re proud the doors of all our stores are still open and feel privileged we can continue to provide New Zealanders with their essential food and groceries in a safe shopping environment.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation to ensure both our customers and essential team members are kept safe

Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll continue to get through this together.



Posted: 8 October 2021
Foodstuffs stores in the Northland region are continuing to provide essential groceries and safe shopping environments for their communities

Following the Government’s announcement that Northland will move to Alert Level 3 restrictions from 11.59pm Friday, 8 October, all Foodstuffs stores are continuing to operate with stringent hygiene protocols and provide essential food and groceries for New Zealanders.

New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square stores nationwide remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders have their grocery needs met. Stores are well-stocked and our stringent cleaning and hygiene protocols remain in place while we continue to fight the Delta outbreak. It continues to be mandatory to wear a face covering when shopping at our stores.

We encourage everyone to always scan the COVID tracer app, maintain the 2m social distance, nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell.

Customer numbers continue to be restricted, so please be patient as you wait to shop for groceries. We want to remind everyone to please continue to #shopnormal so there are enough groceries for others.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation to ensure both our customers and essential team members are kept safe

Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll continue to get through this together.

Kia kaha.


Posted: 7 October 2021

Foodstuffs stores in the Waikato region’s extended Alert Level 3 boundary are continuing to provide essential groceries and safe shopping environments for their communities


Following the Government’s announcement today, Foodstuffs stores in the Waikato region that fall under the extended Alert Level 3 boundary are continuing to operate with stringent hygiene protocols and provide essential food and groceries for New Zealanders.

As announced by the Government, more parts of the Waikato region will move to Alert Level 3 from 11.59pm tonight, Thursday 7 October.

The extended areas include Waitomo, Waipa, and Ōtorohanga. The areas of Waikato that are already in Level 3 including Raglan, Huntly, Te Kauwhata, Ngāruawāhia, and Hamilton City will remain at Alert Level 3. This will be in place until at least 11.59pm on Monday 11 October.

New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square stores nationwide remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders have their grocery needs met. Stores are well-stocked and our stringent cleaning and hygiene protocols remain in place while we continue to fight the Delta outbreak. It continues to be mandatory to wear a face covering when shopping at our stores.

We encourage everyone to always scan the COVID tracer app, maintain the 2m social distance, nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell.

Customer numbers continue to be restricted, so please be patient as you wait to shop for groceries. We want to remind everyone to please continue to #shopnormal so there are enough groceries for others.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation to ensure both our customers and essential team members are kept safe

Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll continue to get through this together.

Kia kaha.

Posted: 3rd October 2021

Foodstuffs’ Waikato stores are ready to operate under Alert Level 3 Covid protocols following the Government’s announcement today

Foodstuffs’ Waikato stores located in Te Kauwhata, Huntly, Ngaruawahia, Hamilton City and Raglan are ready to shift to Alert Level 3 from 11:59pm Sunday 3 October for the next five days, following the Government’s announcement this afternoon regarding positive Covid cases in the region.

All New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square stores will continue to operate using stringent cleaning and hygiene protocols.

Auckland remains in Alert Level 3 and shoppers visiting Waikato and Auckland stores will be accustomed to the health and safety measures in place, including it being mandatory to wear a face covering when shopping and maintaining the 2m social distance. Please nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell.

Customer numbers continue to be restricted during Alert Level 3, so please be patient as you wait to shop for groceries. We want to remind everyone to please continue to #shopnormal so there are enough groceries for others.

Foodstuffs stores are well stocked and teams are continuing to provide New Zealanders with their essential food and groceries in safe shopping environments.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation to ensure both our customers and essential team members are kept safe.

Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll continue to get through this together.
Kia kaha.

Posted: 20 September 2021
Foodstuffs’ Auckland stores continue to operate under stringent Covid protocols as government announces the city’s move to Alert Level 3

Foodstuffs’ Auckland stores are ready to shift to Alert Level 3 from 11:59pm Tuesday 21 September, following the government’s announcement this afternoon.

All New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square stores will continue to operate using stringent cleaning and hygiene protocols.

It was also announced that the area south of the Auckland boundary line but north of Highway 2 (encompassing Mangatangi, Miranda, and Whakatiwai) will have a bespoke Level 4 arrangement for the next five days.

Foodstuffs stores are well stocked and teams continue to provide New Zealanders with their essential food and groceries in safe shopping environments. Shoppers visiting our Auckland stores can expect to see the same Covid health and safety measures in place, including it being mandatory to wear a face covering when shopping at our stores and maintaining the 2m social distance. Please nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell.

Customer numbers continue to be restricted, so please be patient as you wait to shop for groceries. We want to remind everyone to please continue to #shopnormal so there are enough groceries for others.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation to ensure both our customers and essential team members are kept safe.

Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll continue to get through this together.

Kia kaha.

Posted 13 September 2021

Foodstuffs stores continue to provide safe shopping environments following government’s announcement of no change to Alert Levels around the country.

Foodstuffs stores continue to provide New Zealanders with their essential food and groceries in safe shopping environments, following government’s announcement this afternoon that there is no change to the Alert Levels around the country.

As announced, Auckland will remain in Alert Level 4 and the rest of the country will remain in Alert Level 2 until 11.59pm on Tuesday 21 September.

New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square stores nationwide remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders have their grocery needs met. Stores are well-stocked and our stringent cleaning and hygiene protocols remain in place while we continue to fight the Delta outbreak.

As per government advice, under Alert Level 4 and Alert Level 2 it continues to be mandatory to wear a face covering when shopping at our stores.

We encourage everyone to always scan the COVID tracer app, maintain the 2m social distance, nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell.

Customer numbers continue to be restricted, so please be patient as you wait to shop for groceries. We want to remind everyone to please continue to #shopnormal so there are enough groceries for others.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation to ensure both our customers and essential team members are kept safe.

Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll continue to get through this together.

Kia kaha.

Posted: 07 September 2021
Foodstuffs stores outside Auckland move to Alert Level 2

Following government’s announcement yesterday, all Foodstuffs stores outside of the Auckland boundary will operate under new Alert Level 2 conditions from midnight tonight, Tuesday 7 September, while Auckland remains in Alert Level 4.

Our stores remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders have their grocery needs met safely as we continue to fight the latest outbreak of Covid-19.

As per government advice, under Alert Level 2 it continues to be mandatory to wear a mask when shopping at our stores.

Along with this, we encourage everyone nationwide to always scan the COVID tracer app, maintain the 2m social distance, nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell. Customers can be reassured that our stringent cleaning and hygiene protocols remain in place.

Customer numbers continue to be restricted, so please be patient as you wait to shop for groceries. We want to remind everyone to please continue to #shopnormal so there are enough groceries for others.

We’re proud the doors of all our stores are still open so we can continue to provide New Zealanders with their essential food and groceries in a safe shopping environment.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation to ensure both our customers and essential team members are kept safe

Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll continue to get through this together.

Kia kaha.

Posted 27/08/21
Four Square increasing support for food banks during lockdown 

Helping our local communities thrive is at the heart of Four Square, and we’ve made a promise to be Here for NZ. As our team continue to work hard to keep shelves stocked during the latest Level 4 lockdown, we recognise that for many families, getting access to the essentials is increasingly tough.

In response, Foodstuffs North Island’s Here for Committee has established a #HereforNZ Fund to support organisations who are working at the frontline of food insecurity during Level 4 lockdown. 

Auckland City Mission and Wellington City Mission are receiving $50,000 each. The New Zealand Food Network who supports food rescue and food bank organisations across New Zealand, will receive $100,000. We are also donating $20,000 in products to Māngere Budgeting Services, an essential support service working across South Auckland communities, whose food parcel stocks were almost exhausted during the current lockdown.

Foodstuffs North Island’s #HereforNZ Fund is made up of owner contributions from Four Square, New World, PAK’nSAVE, and Gilmours stores in the North Island.  It is a natural extension of our commitment to be #Here for NZ, and a demonstration of its promise every New Zealander should have access to healthy and affordable food.

 

Posted 27/08/21
Foodstuffs responds to the Government’s alert level announcement

Announced today, all regions of New Zealand will remain in Alert Level 4 until 11:59pm, Tuesday 31 August. Then all regions south of the Auckland boundary will move to Alert Level 3 from 11:59pm Tuesday 31 August, while Auckland and Northland will remain in Alert Level 4.


Our stores remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders have their grocery needs met safely as we continue to fight the latest outbreak of Covid-19.


Throughout this lockdown, our supermarkets and integrated supply chain are prepared, and our stores have good supply. We want to thank customers who have been shopping normal throughout this current lockdown and remind them their actions mean everyone has a fair chance at purchasing essential items.


Recent research undertaken by Foodstuffs shows New Zealanders are supportive of the Ministry of Health’s announcement for people aged 12 and over to be required to wear a face covering when visiting any essential services during Alert Level 4. We’ve seen great compliance and support so far and we’d like to thank our shoppers for this.


Face coverings will remain mandatory for staff and shoppers visiting essential services at Alert Level 3. We welcome the government’s decision to keep this mandate in place. For customers who have an exemption, we do ask them to please have the correct documentation ready when visiting our stores, otherwise we do reserve the right to refuse entry.

Along with this, we encourage everyone nationwide to always scan the COVID tracer app, maintain the 2m social distance, nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you are feeling unwell.


All our stores nationwide will continue to operate with additional safety measures seen during Alert Level 4. Customers at our supermarkets will continue to see some staff protection measures in their local store, including perspex protective screens at checkout, floor decals communicating the appropriate 2m physical distancing length, staff wearing masks and to maintain the social distancing measures, we will be limiting the number of customers in store at any one time.


We’re proud the doors of all our stores are still open so we can continue to provide New Zealanders with their essential food and groceries in a safe shopping environment. Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll continue to get through this together.


Kia kaha.


Posted 18/08/21
Foodstuffs reinstates 10 per cent bonus for essential employees during latest Level 4 lockdown

 

The Foodstuffs Co-operatives, Foodstuffs North Island and Foodstuffs South Island, have today confirmed all essential front-line, distribution and a few other key employees nationwide will, once again, receive a 10 per cent bonus to their hours worked while in Alert Level 4 lockdown.

Chris Quin, CEO, Foodstuffs North Island says, “We’re extremely proud and appreciative of how our teams have jumped straight back into Level 4 mode, operating during these times can be extremely difficult.

“Providing the 10 per cent bonus during Level 4 is the right thing to do for our essential workers – it’s a positive way we can show our gratitude for the critical work they’re providing right now to keep everyone safe and keep stock on shelves.

“Our number one priority is to look after our teams and supporting them during these challenging times is critically important. We are also working to increase staff access to vaccines.”

Steve Anderson, CEO, Foodstuffs South Island adds, “We recognise the closure of education and childcare facilities is an additional challenge for some of our essential team members and we are working closely with these individuals to make special arrangements.

“As we enter Alert Level 4 across the country we are once again asking customers to #shopnormal, be kind to our teams, look after each other and help New Zealand get through this quickly together. We’ve done this before – by pulling together we are confident we can do this again.”

Every front-line and distribution centre employee working through the Alert Level 4 lockdown will receive a 10 per cent bonus each pay cycle for the days worked during the current Alert Level 4 lockdown.

Foodstuffs defines front-line and distribution centre employees as the following: staff across all Foodstuffs retail stores nationwide (New World, PAK’nSAVE, Four Square, Gilmours, Trents, Raeward Fresh), distribution centres and small number of other impacted employees.
Posted 17/08/21
Foodstuffs stores ready for New Zealand Alert Level 4 lockdown
  

Following the announcement from government this evening that New Zealand is to return to Alert Level 4 from midnight 17 August, our supermarkets and integrated supply chain are prepared, and our stores have a good supply of groceries on the shelves. We are again asking customers to shop normal and let’s help each other get through this in a way that’s respectful to all New Zealanders.

 

Our top priority is to ensure the health and safety of our customers and teams during this time.  Our teams are preparing to move alert levels from 11:59 on 17 August and we ask customers to be patient as we roll out and all get used to the various safety precautions required to keep everyone safe.   

 

In the meantime, we encourage everyone nationwide to always scan the COVID tracer app, wear a mask when shopping, nominate one person in the household to shop and ask a friend or neighbour to shop on your behalf if you aren’t feeling well.  As per previous Alert Level 4s, customers at our supermarkets will see some staff protection measures returning to their local store, including perspex protective screens at checkout, floor decals communicating the appropriate 2m physical distancing length, staff wearing masks and to maintain the social distancing measures, we will be limiting the number of customers in store at any one time. 

 

While we wait for the result of the genome testing of the positive case, we are, like government, assuming the positive community case is the Delta variant, which is known to be a more transmissible strain of COVID-19 - and we ask all customers to please comply with store signage and staff direction to maintain physical distancing and strongly encourage customers to wear a mask when they are shopping with us.

 

At Alert Level 4 there is naturally some impact to how our stores will deliver for our customers and we ask our customers to:

  • Scan the COVID-19 QR codes – download the NZ COVID-19 Tracer App and scan the QR Code at stores to enable quick contact tracing if needed and turn on Bluetooth tracking.

     

  • Please nominate a single family or household member to shop – to comply with physical distancing recommendations, and to ensure there is a steady flow of traffic in and out of stores within our ‘one in, one out’ system, we are asking New Zealanders who shop in person to please shop alone. This is to ensure the number of people in-store at any one time is kept to a minimum – by leaving your loved ones at home you are helping to keep them safe. 

     

  • Wear masks when you leave home and while shopping – in line with Government’s direction, please leave home with a mask and we strongly encourage all customers to wear face masks when visiting our stores. 

     

  • #shopnormal – we continue to ask customers to not stockpile; this is so everyone has a fair shot at buying their grocery essentials. Please only buy what you need and be fair to others. We have plenty of stock, and to ensure there is plenty of product to go around, product limitations will be put in place on a store or product basis if the individual store determines there is a need.

     

  • Utilise contactless payments – we encourage customers to use contactless payments such as payWave as another way of reducing contact between customers and staff. Help us keep you safe.

     

  • Shop online (where available) – we have contactless online shopping delivery for customers who are self-isolating, vulnerable or unwell – we ask customers simply to let the team know in the comments section when the order is placed. We also ask customers who are feeling unwell to please not come to the store to collect their Click & Collect order and to instead arrange a friend or family member to pick up your groceries for you.

     

  • Respect each other– we are asking New Zealand to again support us as we work hard to continue meeting our goal of ensuring everyone has access to grocery essentials. We ask that all customers please remain patient and considerate of each other and staff during this time.

     

  • Lastly, we would like to extend a warm thank you to our teams for, once again, stepping up and putting New Zealand’s needs ahead of their own.

 

We’ve done this before New Zealand – we can do this again. We’re in it together so let’s support each other as we come together in the fight against COVID-19 again.

 

 

 


Posted 23/06/2021
Foodstuffs North Island responds to greater Wellington region move to Alert Level 2 

  
Following today's announcement, the greater Wellington region will move to Alert Level 2 from 6pm Wednesday 23 June until 11:59 pm on Sunday 27 June. Customers visiting their local New World, PAK’nSAVE or Four Square store in the Wellington region can expect to see increased sanitisation, safety measures and physical distancing when they visit their local store. 

We've all been here before, and our greater Wellington teams are well-prepared to reinstate Alert Level 2 protocols and look after their communities, and we ask that all customers, no matter where they live, to #shopnormal, use the NZ Covid Tracer App, and routinely wash their hands and sanitise. 

New World, PAK'nSAVE and Four Square stores have good stocks of PPE and hand sanitiser, and our teams are familiar with what is required to keep both themselves and our customers safe from COVID-19.  

We would like to reassure customers that, just like before, our supply chain is robust. We are working hard to make sure all the grocery items households might need are on shelf and readily available. Just buy what you need, as you need it.  

Our teams have got your back – #shopnormal, #bekind and #besafe. 

Four Square stores in the Wellington region affected by a shift to Alert Level 2 are:
• Eastbourne
• Fergusson
• Hataitai
• Kapiti
• Karori
• Kelburn
• Kelson
• Kena Kena
• Martinborough
• Morere
• Naenae
• Otaki
• Raumati Beach
• Raumati South
• Seatoun
• Seddon Street
• Shalimar
• Taita
• Thriftway
• Titahi Bay
• Waikanae Beach
• Waterloo


 
Posted 05/03/2021
Alert level changes and civil defence warning update

Following the update from Civil Defence and the announcement by the Prime Minister at 4pm we are pleased to confirm all tsunami warnings have now been cancelled and all stores have reopened.

The Government has confirmed that as of 6.00am Sunday morning Auckland will return to Alert Level 2 and the rest of the country will move to Alert Level 1 – this will be reviewed by cabinet at the end of next week. Customers can expect to see the usual Alert Level 2 protocols in place across our Auckland supermarkets and a return to normal shopping throughout the rest of the country.

For more information on the Alert Levels and what this means for you please visit https://covid19.govt.nz/.

 
Posted 27/02/2021
Auckland returns to Level 3 Lockdown

Following yesterday’s announcement that Auckland is to return to Alert Level 3, our supermarkets have swung into action and are working hard to provide New Zealand with the essential groceries they require. As in previous lockdowns, our supermarkets will remain open in order to meet the needs of New Zealanders and our supply chain is robust and we are working closely with our suppliers to meet customers’ needs.

But, at Alert Level 3 there is naturally some impact to how our stores will operate, so we would ask our customers to:

  • Scan the COVID-19 QR codes – download the NZ COVID-19 Tracer App and scan the QR Code at stores to enable quick contact tracing if needed and turn on Bluetooth tracing. 
  • In the wider Auckland area please nominate a family member to shop – to comply with physical distancing recommendations, and to ensure there is a steady flow of traffic in and out of stores within our ‘one in, one out’ system, we are asking New Zealanders who shop in person to please shop alone. This is to ensure the number of people in-store at any one time is kept to a minimum – by leaving your loved ones at home you are helping keep them safe.
  • Wear masks while shopping – in line with Government’s direction, we encourage all customers to wear face masks when visiting our stores, especially in the wider Auckland area.
  • Utilise contactless payments – we encourage customers to use contactless payments such as payWave as another way of reducing contact between customers and staff. Help us keep you safe.
  • #shopnormal – we continue to ask customers to not stockpile; this is so everyone has a fair shot at buying their grocery essentials. Please only buy what you need and be fair to others. We have plenty of stock, and to ensure there is plenty of product to go around, product limitations may be put in place on a store or product basis if the individual store determines there is a need.
  • Be kind – we are asking New Zealand to again support us as we work hard to continue meeting our goal of ensuring everyone has access to grocery essentials. We ask that all customers please remain patient and considerate to each other and staff during this time.

Customers will begin to see various staff protection measures in place at their local store including staff wearing masks, perspex protective screens at checkout, and floor decals communicating the appropriate 2m physical distancing length. We ask all customers to please comply with store signage and staff direction to maintain physical distancing.

Lastly, we would like to extend a warm thank you to our teams on the shop floor for once again stepping up and putting New Zealand’s needs ahead of their own.

We’ve got this New Zealand, we’re in it together so let’s support each other as we come together in the fight against COVID-19 again.

Posted 14/08/2020
Foodstuffs responds to Government announcement to keep Auckland at Level 3 and rest of country to remain at Level 2

Following the Government’s announcement for Auckland to remain at Alert Level 3 and the rest of the country to remain at Alert Level 2 until at the very earliest, 11:59pm Wednesday 26 August, Foodstuffs stores around the country are well-prepared to continue to look after Aucklanders, and all New Zealanders, and ensure they have access to the grocery essentials they need.

We have been prepared for this and want to assure customers that our supply chain is strong, with a constant flow of grocery essentials leaving our DCs and heading to stores around the country 24/7.

Please know how this announcement will continue to impact how our stores operate and what customers can expect when they shop with us. There may be some differences in shopping experiences depending on the region.

But before heading to the store, we’re asking all New Zealanders to please look in their pantry first. If it’s well stocked, please only buy what you need when you visit the store. By shopping normally, you’re playing your part in helping New Zealand fight Covid-19 and ensuring there is plenty of stock to go around for others.

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Safety and cleaning measures in store – the safety of our teams and customers remains our top priority. We have already reinstated safety and cleaning measures in all stores nationwide which includes increased sanitisation of high touch areas including checkout belts, EFTPOS terminals, self-checkouts and trolleys.

Keep your distance – nationwide, customers will already be familiar with the need to adhere to physical distancing of 2 metres between other customers and staff, so please keep your distance. In the North Island, we have also closed every second checkout and self-checkout, and have reinstated signage reminding customers to keep their distance.

Managed customer numbers in store – stores nationwide will be limiting the number of customers in store at any one time. This is incredibly important to ensure customers can move freely around the store to get their grocery essentials and maintain a safe distance away from other customers and staff. We thank customers in advance for their patience if there is an external queue at their local store.

Delivering value and fair prices – we are in uncertain times, but one thing New Zealanders can be certain of is our mission to keep shelves stocked and to continue delivering promotions and specials. Just like the previous lockdown, we are endeavoring to keep promotions going and are working hard with our suppliers to continue delivering fair value and great prices for our customers.

One customer, one trolley – in the Auckland region only, we are asking customers to please nominate one person from your household to do the family shop. This means a one customer, one trolley policy. By sticking to this policy, we’re able to allow more customers in store and keep any queues moving.

Stores are trying hard to keep queues short as they know queuing outside in winter can be cold and wet for customers which is less than ideal, so please, shop alone.

Scan the NZ Covid Tracer QR code – we ask all customers, regardless of where they live, to please scan the NZ Covid Tracer app QR code at store entrances and to follow the prompts to register. This is to keep you, other customers and staff safe in the event the Ministry of Health needs to implement contact tracing.

Reusable bags will vary by store – to reduce contact between customers and staff, and to move customers through the checkout process more quickly, we’re asking all Auckland customers to please leave their reusable bags in the car or at home. Please check with your local store if they are still allowing reusable bags in-store, as this may vary across the North Island. But, we ask all North Island customers to please be prepared to pack their groceries directly into their trolley and then into their car. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Wear a mask if you can – in line with the Government’s guidance, Aucklanders are highly encouraged to cover their nose and mouth with a face covering when outside of their home. If you live in Auckland and visit one of our stores, please wear a face mask or cover your mouth and nose with a face covering.

We have millions of masks – we have been preparing for this since the last lockdown and nationwide, we have more than 8 million masks in our supply chain. Our teams are working tirelessly to get these through the system and onto store shelves for customers. If a customer’s store is low or out of mask supply, please rest assured that more stock is on the way – it’s simply making its way through.

Product limitations will vary by store – we have an incredibly robust supply chain and our teams are working tirelessly to ensure a steady flow of product into stores around the country. Product limitations will vary by store regardless of region. Before heading to the supermarket, we ask all customers to take a look in their pantry first – if it is still well stocked, please only buy what you need.

Use contactless payment if you can – we encourage customers nationwide to use contactless payments as another way of reducing contact.

Stay home and stay safe – please only visit the store if you absolutely need to purchase your grocery essentials. If you are feeling unwell, please stay home.

#shopnormal – please only buy what you need, as you need it. It’s important we all shop normally as this helps keep shelves stocked and ensures all New Zealanders can get the essentials they need.

We have been here before and we will get through this again. Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll get through this together.

 

 


Posted 11/08/2020
Foodstuffs responds to Government announcement to move Auckland back to Alert Level 3

Following the announcement by the Prime Minister this evening that there is a case of community transmission in South Auckland, and the requirement for the greater Auckland area to re-enter Alert Level 3 from midday tomorrow, Foodstuffs will be reactivating overnight the social distancing and health and safety protocols across our stores and supply chain.

Customers visiting all stores across the wider Auckland area can expect to see the following Customer and Team safety measures in place:

  • 2 metre social distancing
  • Restricted customer numbers in-store
  • One customer, one trolley
  • No bag packers at check out
  • No reusable bags to be bought into store
  • Increased sanitisation, hygiene and cleaning protocols throughout the supermarket including, on entry, at checkout and other high touch areas
  • Social distancing signage and posters advising of customer requirements

In recognition of the fact the rest of New Zealand is now in Alert Level 2, customers outside of Auckland can expect to also see increased sanitisation and safety measures when they visit their local supermarket. These measures will be in place, initially from midday Wednesday12 August until midnight Friday 14 August - but this may be extended depending on the advice received from Government over the coming days.

While we truly hoped it wouldn’t happen, as a business we just had to plan that another outbreak could occur, and the teams have been prepared for some time should we need to reinstate previous Alert Level protocols. Foodstuffs has good stocks of PPE and hand sanitiser, and our teams are familiar with what is required to keep both themselves and our customers safe from COVID-19.

We would like to reassure customers that, just like before, our supply chain is robust. We are working hard to make sure all the grocery items New Zealand households might need are on the shelf and readily available.

We ask that shoppers #shopnormal – this is the best way to ensure no pressure is put on the supply chain. Just buy what you need, as you need it. Our teams have got your back New Zealand – help us by being kind to one another, we know how to do this. Keep your distance, sanitise and use good hand washing techniques and most of all remember your safety comes first for us.

 

 


Posted 10/06/2020
Foodstuffs celebrates stamping out COVID-19 with a return to normal in stores

Foodstuffs is proud to stand with New Zealanders and celebrate the elimination of COVID-19, and a return to shopping normally for our stores, teams and most importantly, our customers.

After 75 days of restrictions to head off the COVID-19 threat and to protect one another, especially our most vulnerable New Zealanders, by staying home and keeping tight bubbles, we are pleased that our stores are back to normal.

Everything customers know and love about their local New World, PAK’nSAVE or Four Square, has returned, with a few exceptions including our enhanced hygiene and cleaning protocols so we can continue to keep our staff and customers safe, and Ministry of Health QR code signage for contact tracing.

We are thankful to our customers and to all New Zealanders for their hard work and sacrifices that have helped us all to eliminate COVID-19 and get to Level 1,” says Chris Quin, CEO of Foodstuffs North Island. “There is no denying that the last couple of months have been challenging. Our team and our supplier partners battled with pressures on key products like hand sanitiser and toilet paper in February, and then yeast and flour flew off the shelves in March as New Zealanders discovered their inner baker, and throughout lockdown we had to manage stringent physical distancing measures and limit numbers in store, all of which posed unique challenge for store teams.

But thanks to our customers, we navigated this hardship together and have come out on the other side stronger and wiser. Thank you to every New Zealander for the positive role you played throughout this crisis, and thank you to our suppliers for partnering and rolling their sleeves up to assure New Zealanders had what they needed for their families.

On behalf of our 39,000-strong team, to New Zealand’s 5 million-strong team, thank you for your patience, understanding and collaboration,” says Steve Anderson, CEO of Foodstuffs South Island. “We’ve looked out for one another, played it safe and remained vigilant, and these efforts enabled us to beat COVID-19 together. Our teams look forward to continue feeding New Zealand and welcoming customers back in store without the restrictions of COVID-19.”

What does Level 1 look like in our stores?
  • Our fresh experts in our Bakery, Deli, Butchery and Seafood serve over departments are back to full service and look forward to serving up mouth-watering doughnuts, the freshest catch of the day, finest meats and more to customers.
  • Physical distancing is no longer required in-store, which means there are no more customer limits or queues to enter stores. We’ve also opened back up all checkout lanes and self-checkouts.
  • We invite you to shop with your friends, family, spouse, whānau or children again, rather than alone. Thanks for bearing with us on this one.
  • Our BYO container and reusable coffee cup offerings have returned.

Customers will continue to see our enhanced cleaning and hygiene protocol in stores, as well as hand sanitising stations, so we can continue to keep our customers and staff safe. The perspex screens are also sticking around for a bit longer. In line with the Government’s request to continue making contact tracing available, some stores will make available QR codes for customers to scan and register upon store entry.

“It’s been a long road from #shopnormal to shopping normally again, but we did it New Zealand,” says Quin. “When you return to stores and settle back into your new normal, our team look forward to serving you and maybe helping you enjoy a celebratory coffee or doughnut.”

“You did a damn good job New Zealand. Thank you.”

 

 


Posted 12/05/2020
Four Square confirms supermarket safety protocols remain at Alert Level 2

Four Square is in complete support of the Government’s plan to move the country to Alert Level 2 and the strong need to focus on continued physical distancing as New Zealand transitions down from Alert Level 3. New Zealand has gamely tackled COVID-19 and the consistently low number of new cases now being identified is extremely positive. We believe a cautious move back to a more widely functioning economy is a very positive step.

The requirement to continue appropriate physical distancing, in particular from strangers, means that at Alert Level 2 customers will experience largely the same safety protocols at the supermarket as they saw during Alert Levels 3 and 4. We will continue to maintain the heightened cleaning protocols, perspex protection screens and physical distancing – and numbers in-store will continue to be managed to ensure both staff and customer safety.

As New Zealand moves back to Alert Level 2, we remain extremely appreciative of the hard work our emergency services, police and medical teams have put in as the country has fought hard against COVID-19. Priority queuing was originally put in place to facilitate access while store hours were limited during Alert Levels 3 and 4 and as opening hours have now returned to normal it feels like the right time to cease this service.

Our stores remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders grocery needs are met, and the teams are firmly focused on managing supply, meeting customers’ needs and ensuring a safe and comfortable shopping experience for all.

We will continue to monitor the number of people allowed in stores as we have during previous alert levels to maintain the appropriate physical distancing. Stores are now allowing customers to shop with their families on a store by store basis, but if you can, please continue to shop alone. If you need to shop with your partner or children, please comply with physical distancing measures and stick together when shopping in store.

We acknowledge some of the physical distancing protocols will be challenging as we head into winter, and we ask customers to bear with us as the teams do their very best to keep queues outside to a minimum while adhering to health and safety requirements.

We ask shoppers to please remain patient and considerate of each other and our staff during this time – #shopnormal #shopsafe #bekind.

 

 


Posted 05/05/2020
Foodstuffs’ $1 million donation to support more than 30 charities across New Zealand

Foodstuffs’ brands – New World, PAK’nSAVE, Four Square, Gilmours and Trents – made a commitment in mid-April to donate more than $1 million to help New Zealanders who are facing tough times due to COVID-19.

Read More

 

 


Posted 22/04/2020
Four Square and Dick Frizzell team up to support New Zealand charities

Four Square and New Zealand artist Dick Frizzell have joined forces to produce a limited-edition artwork print, with all profits of the prints going towards supporting New Zealand charities.

There are three New Zealand charities customers can choose from to support when they purchase an artwork print – KiwiHarvest, Lifeline and Women’s Refuge.

Four Square’s DNA is by locals for locals, and we have a responsibility to look after all New Zealanders and our communities, especially during this challenging time,” says Kamran Kazalbash, Head of Marketing and CX for Four Square. “We collaborated with Dick to identify how we could support local charities who are experiencing an increase in demand due to COVID-19.

KiwiHarvest, Lifeline and Women’s Refuge are incredible charities who have a presence in every community across the country. We’re giving customers the option to choose which charity they would like to support so they can have a positive and direct impact on a charitable cause that is close to their heart.

The limited-edition artwork print, in true Dick Frizzell style, features Mr. Four Square and his family, reminding New Zealand to stand together in solidarity during an unprecedented time. Mrs. Four Square and their two children are rarely featured publicly and are reprising their roles to complete the Four Square family. Every artwork print is also hand-signed by Dick.

Dick’s artistry is synonymous with New Zealand culture, and Four Square has been an integral part of New Zealand culture for almost 96 years,” says Kazalbash. “Supporting one another, especially our most in-need individuals and communities, is the New Zealand way and we’re proud to be able to help in any way we can.”

Four Square has transcended from being your local supermarket into something much bigger in our cultural narrative,” says Dick Frizzell. “I’ve been painting Mr Four Square for decades, and he’s always been a Kiwiana symbol of nostalgia and local pride. It makes sense to bring him out during this time and remind New Zealanders that once was will be again, and there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.”

The limited-edition artwork print costs $99, including delivery, and can be purchased here.

 

 


Posted 14/04/2020

We know how much you care about your thriving local community. It’s a passion that's shared by our Four Square Supermarket teams throughout New Zealand. Access to healthy and affordable food for you and your community is vital – especially those who are struggling the most.

This need is even more critical right now as the economic impact of COVID-19 starts to affect so many Kiwis. We don't underestimate that this is a serious and challenging time for you, which is why the Four Square Supermarkets team is proud to be part of Foodstuffs' donation to New Zealanders in need.

Supporting New Zealand

On behalf of both Foodstuffs Co-operatives, all New World, PAK'nSAVE and Four Square Supermarket teams and owner operators across New Zealand, we want to say thank you.

  • We're grateful for the kindness and understanding you are showing as we continue to navigate these challenging times
  • We remain committed to playing our part to feed New Zealand

Our locally owned stores and Foodstuffs co-operatives already support many organisations doing great work in our local communities – from food banks to schools, community initiatives and charities

  • Last year our stores donated the equivalent of 8 million meals to New Zealanders through food rescue partnerships alone
  • We're proud to continue supporting their incredible work

A boost in support for those who need it most

To further support our communities, we will be donating more than $1 million to help New Zealanders who are facing tough times due to COVID-19, through a number of our charitable and social partners.

This additional $1m donation will enable key community partners to support Kiwis in-need even further, and enables them to kickstart innovative initiatives aimed at getting groceries to our most physically and financially vulnerable during this time.

The organisations will include existing partnerships we have such as local community food banks, food rescue partners, Eat My Lunch, and the Student Volunteer Army.

Thanking you and our amazing staff

Thank you our amazing staff and customers, you have been patient, kind and supportive over the past few weeks. During this time:

  • We have hired more than 1500 employees to meet your needs
  • We look forward to continuing to build on our 39,000 strong workforce
  • We are giving our waged front-line, distribution and transport employees a 10% allowance on top of their pay for the hours worked throughout the lockdown

Working hard to meet your needs

We are incredibly proud of our team who have been working hard to keep stores clean, well-stocked and open over the last six weeks. During that time there have been significant shifts in demand for a variety of food, grocery and household essentials.

  • Our supply chain has been working 24/7 to keep store shelves stocked to meet customers’ changing needs and our stock level in stores is normalising
  • Our amazing teams continue to stock shelves throughout the day and night so you have access to the products you want regardless of what time you shop with us

Thanks again for your understanding and kindness as we navigate these challenging times together.

 

 


Posted 09/04/2020
How to shop safe this Easter

The staff at your local Four Square want to ensure you can shop for your Easter essentials safely. Here are some things you can do to help our stores:

Check your local store opening hours for Easter weekend

Each store will have different opening hours to meet the needs of their local communities. Please check online to find your local store’s opening hours so you can plan the time of your shop.

Plan what you need before you shop

Getting in and out of the supermarket quickly is important to ensure we all limit contact and stay safe. Make sure you know exactly what you need to buy to make your shop as efficient as possible.

Designate one person to do your shop

To help limit shoppers please send just one person from your ‘bubble’. This means everyone can move freely around the store and maintain a safe distance from fellow shoppers and staff.

Follow physical distancing guidelines

Remember to maintain a two metre physical distance from staff and customers when in store and wait at the designated floor markers when in line to help keep everyone safe.

Be patient and kind

Let’s continue to be patient, kind and considerate towards other shoppers, staff and one another. We know things are taking a little longer, but with your help and kindness we can all get through this together.

From all of us at Four Square,
Happy Easter and kia kaha Aotearoa.

 

 


Posted 27/03/2020

Four Square are inviting uniformed emergency services and medical personnel to take priority at the checkout and external queues in any store, at any time nationwide starting today.

Effective immediately at all Four Square stores around New Zealand, any emergency service or medical professional wearing their uniform or carrying DHB, medical centre or proper identification will be given priority to enter the store, should the store have a line, and to go through the checkout line first.

We know it might be hard for emergency services and medical personnel to do their shop at a fixed time every day,” says Chris Quin, CEO of Foodstuffs North Island. “Our goal is to provide New Zealand’s much needed essential personnel with the opportunity to do their shop whenever they need to and not have to wait in any line. They are making an incredible commitment to keep us safe as we unite to fight against COVID-19 and we are incredibly grateful for their service.”

The offering applies to all Military, Civil Defence, Police, Fire and Emergency, Ambulance, and medical professionals, including DHB personnel, doctors and nurses.

“As New Zealand works together to eliminate COVID-19, our emergency services and medical teams are going to be critical to help New Zealanders stay safe and well,” says Steve Anderson, CEO of Foodstuffs South Island. “We’re proud to be able to do our bit to make their lives easier when we know they’ll be working long and stressful hours. They deserve priority access all day every day, and our essential working staff look forward to serving them.”

 

 


Posted 25/03/2020

As we’re sure you’re aware, New Zealand will enter the Alert Level 4 ‘Eliminate’ phase of the National Pandemic Plan at 11.59pm tonight. The team at Four Square would like to provide you with an update on some of the changes that we’re introducing to help keep our customers and staff safe and healthy.

The good news is that our Four Square stores will remain open as the Government has identified supermarkets as one of the essential services during Alert Level 4.

Here are some changes that you’ll see in your Four Square store:

Managed customer numbers in store

Stores will be limiting the number of shoppers in-store at any one time. This is incredibly important to ensure you can move freely around to get your grocery essentials and maintain a safe physical distance away from others.

Reduced number of staff on shop floor

Stores may reduce the number of employees working on the shop floor at any one time. This is to maintain the recommended 2 metre physical distance between individuals. Please respect the appropriate physical distance recommendation as per the Ministry of Health’s guidelines.

Pack your own bags

We’re now requesting that you please pack your own bags, as one of our staff protection measures, but do ask for assistance if this is not possible.

We’d like to help you get through your shopping as safely and quickly as possible – for a full list of all current adjustments to Four Square stores, please visit our website.

And please remember to:

Nominate a family member to shop

We’re asking you to please shop alone. This is to ensure we can keep the number of people in-store at any one time to a minimum.

#shopnormal

Please shop like you normally would and remember there is no need to stockpile. Please only buy what you need and be fair to others who may not have the budget or transportation to stock up. There is enough supply in New Zealand – when products are out of stock on the shelves, it only means there are more on the way to keep up with the sudden increase in purchases.

Be kind

With everything that’s going on in the world it’s important that we continue to be kind and considerate towards other shoppers, staff and one another. Together, we can nail this. Remember, we’ll remain open – Four Square is a core essential service and we are fully dedicated to supporting New Zealand through this.

 

 


Posted 23/03/2020

As you will likely be aware Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced today that New Zealand has moved to Alert Level 3 of the National Pandemic Plan in order to flatten the curve of COVID-19. These are extraordinary times and if we are to protect our people, extreme measures do need to be taken.

Please be assured that our Four Square stores remain 100% committed to ensuring your grocery needs are met and we are doing everything we can to make this happen.

Supermarkets are one of the essential services, as identified by the government and will remain open and able to meet your needs. Please be aware, the alert Level 3 status will now impact how our stores will operate:

Reduced store hours

Individual stores will determine their own operating hours and may choose to reduce them to be able to restock shelves. Individual stores will make this call based on the needs of their community. Any updates to store hours will be made on this page, please check here to stay across your supermarket's trading hours.

Staff protection measures

You will begin to see various (but not necessarily all) staff protection measures in place at your local store including staff wearing masks, protective screens at checkout and floor decals communicating the appropriate 2.0m physical distancing length. We ask you to please comply with store signage and staff direction to maintain physical distancing.

Community shopping hours

We’re in communication with elderly support groups and they have told us specific shopping hours aren’t what they are looking for, it is also not aligned with Ministry of Health guidance for the over 70s to stay at home. The most important message here is for you to #shopnormal, so there is product on the shelves for the elderly when friends and relatives are shopping for them.

Nominate a family member to shop

To comply with physical distancing recommendations and to ensure there is a steady flow of traffic in and out of stores within our ‘one in, one out’ system, we are asking you to please shop alone when coming into your local store. This is to ensure the number of people in-store at any one time is kept to a minimum – by leaving your loved ones at home you are helping keep them safe.

Contactless payments

We encourage customers to use contactless payments as another way of reducing contact between customers and staff. Help us keep you safe.

#shopnormal

Please don't stockpile. This is so everyone has an opportunity to buy their grocery essentials. Please buy what you need and be fair and kind to others.

Be kind

We are asking you to please support us as we work hard to continue meeting our goal of ensuring everyone has access to grocery essentials. We ask that everyone please remains patient and considerate to each other and staff during this time.

We’ll continue to be there for you during this hard time. Please be patient, considerate and kind and we’ll get through this together.

 

 


Posted 22/03/2020

Our stores remain 100% committed to ensuring New Zealanders have their grocery needs met and we are doing everything we can to make this happen.

Supermarkets are one of the essential services Government has identified and will remain open and able to meet the needs of New Zealanders. Our store staff, suppliers, truck drivers, warehouses, customer service and support personnel are critical to helping New Zealand unite against COVID-19. We are extremely grateful to the fact our teams are continuing to work tirelessly to meet New Zealand’s needs at this time, without their ongoing dedication we simply couldn’t make it happen for you, they are the mainstay of what we do. But please be assured, we will continue serving New Zealand and meeting Kiwi’s everyday grocery needs. We are a business where every store is locally owned, and each store is making the best decisions every day for their community as this situation unfolds.

But we do want to ask our communities to support us as we work hard to achieve this. Please remain patient and considerate to each other and our staff during this time – our people are placing feeding New Zealand ahead of their own personal needs and we are incredibly grateful for their selfless commitment.

Please #shopnormal and we will do all we can to support you.

Kia kaha New Zealand.

 

 


Posted 19/03/2020

A message from New Zealand's supermarkets:

Kia ora New Zealand

We understand this is a very uncertain time for our country. We’re all concerned about the health and safety of our family, friends and communities.

And we know that access to safe, quality food and groceries is essential to our health and peace of mind.

We want to help alleviate some of the uncertainty many of us are feeling by letting you know that when it comes to food and groceries, we’ve got you covered.

New Zealand grows and makes some of the best food in the world (in our humble opinion), and our distribution centres and store teams are going above and beyond to make sure we’ve got plenty of it available on our shelves. But, we need your help:

Shop like you normally would

Buying more than you need means others go without. Be considerate and avoid stockpiling. By all means pick up a couple of extra things in your shop, but there is no need to stock up for weeks in advance.

Shop in our stores

They are safe. While we’ve always had very thorough cleaning, hygiene and food safety processes in our stores, we’ve increased these measures even further to help keep our team and our communities safe and well.

Look out for each other

In times of uncertainty a little kindness goes a long way. Please be kind to fellow shoppers and to our store, supply chain and call centre teams, who are working around the clock to keep shelves stocked and your needs met. They’re our heroes.

Feeding our communities is our No.1 priority and if we all work together, and take care of each other, we can make sure there’s plenty for everyone.

Thanks New Zealand - with your support, we’ve got this.

 

 


Posted 17/03/2020

We’d like to assure our customers that Four Square has a strong plan in place around COVID-19 which includes keeping our people and customers safe – our focus is very much on ensuring New Zealanders have the essential products they require and we are working with our suppliers to make this happen every day.

At store and throughout the supply chain, staff are across all health and safety protocols as advised by health authorities to keep themselves and customers safe. This includes cleaning and disinfecting measures which are in place across all stores and are aligned with food safety practices.

We’re working with our stores and cleaning service providers to provide additional sanitising facilities for customers which include wipes for cleaning trolley handles and hand sanitiser dispensing units which will be placed strategically around stores. Many stores already have these units in place and our service provider is actively working with remaining stores to get the facilities in place.

We would like to stress that none of these measures are being used to replace good hand washing techniques and personal care as advised by the Ministry of Health – the health measures outlined by the Ministry are the best way for the public to protect themselves. These measures can be found here.

We remind customers to please shop as you normally would. Whilst in store you may see some limits on lines of products – this is to ensure that there is enough for everyone.

We’re grateful for your cooperation and will keep you informed if the situation changes. We recognise that these are unsettling times, and we want you to know that the safety of our customers and staff are our priority.

As you can appreciate we are currently receiving unprecedented high volumes of calls and emails from our customers so we ask that you please refrain from contacting us unless it’s urgent – thanks for your patience and understanding.

 

 


Four Square and Dick Frizzell team up to support New Zealand charities

Four Square and New Zealand artist Dick Frizzell have joined forces to produce a limited-edition artwork print, with all profits of the prints going towards supporting New Zealand charities.

There are three New Zealand charities customers can choose from to support when they purchase an artwork print – KiwiHarvest, Lifeline and Women’s Refuge.

“Four Square’s DNA is by locals for locals, and we have a responsibility to look after all New Zealanders and our communities, especially during this challenging time,” says Kamran Kazalbash, Head of Marketing and CX for Four Square. “We collaborated with Dick to identify how we could support local charities who are experiencing an increase in demand due to COVID-19.

KiwiHarvest, Lifeline and Women’s Refuge are incredible charities who have a presence in every community across the country. We’re giving customers the option to choose which charity they would like to support so they can have a positive and direct impact on a charitable cause that is close to their heart.”

The limited-edition artwork print, in true Dick Frizzell style, features Mr. Four Square and his family, reminding New Zealand to stand together in solidarity during an unprecedented time. Mrs. Four Square and their two children are rarely featured publicly and are reprising their roles to complete the Four Square family. Every artwork print is also hand-signed by Dick.

“Dick’s artistry is synonymous with New Zealand culture, and Four Square has been an integral part of New Zealand culture for almost 96 years,” says Kazalbash. “Supporting one another, especially our most in-need individuals and communities, is the New Zealand way and we’re proud to be able to help in any way we can.”

“Four Square has transcended from being your local supermarket into something much bigger in our cultural narrative,” says Dick Frizzell. “I’ve been painting Mr Four Square for decades, and he’s always been a Kiwiana symbol of nostalgia and local pride. It makes sense to bring him out during this time and remind New Zealanders that once was will be again, and there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.”

The limited-edition artwork print costs $99, including delivery, and can be purchased here.

How will the continuation of the current situation at Alert Level impact physical distancing?

We are asking all customers nationwide, to adhere to physical distancing in our stores. This move is one New Zealanders will be familiar with from our previous time spent in lockdown. Customers will also see the return of physical distancing signage including posters and floor decals advising of the 2m physical distancing requirements. It’s important all customers maintain 2m physical distancing when shopping to keep both themselves and our teams safe.

Will you be restricting customer numbers in stores?

The move to Level 2 means that all New Zealanders must maintain the appropriate physical distancing measure of 2m when shopping in store. This means stores will be limiting the number of customers allowed in-store at any given time.

Customers have grown accustomed to the Perspex screens at checkout and readily available trolley wipes and hand sanitizer in store. We encourage customers to use the sanitising options available, and to remain vigilant with their hand washing routines as this is the best line of defense against Covid-19.

Can I shop with my family?

Please be mindful that when you shop with multiple members of your household when you don’t need to, you’re preventing other customers from entering the store and contributing to longer queue times. Stores are trying hard to keep queues short as they know queuing outside in winter can be cold and wet for customers which is less than ideal.

Are you increasing your cleaning protocols to keep staff and customers safe?

We have already reinstated safety and cleaning measures in all stores nationwide which includes increased sanitisation of high touch areas including checkout belts, EFTPOS terminals, self-checkouts and trolleys.

Are customers allowed to bring their own reusable bags into stores?

Please check with your local store if they still have bag packers at checkout as this may vary across the country. We are asking all customers to please be prepared to pack their own groceries in the event their store has paused this service.

Customers who live in the South Island are welcome to continue shopping with their reusable bags.

What is your stock situation for in-demand products?

We have an incredibly robust supply chain and we are well-versed in dealing with spikes of product demand. We have ample stock of in-demand products and continue to encourage customers to shop normally. Stockpiling puts unnecessary stress on the supply chain and takes essential products away from others – we ask customers resist the urge and #shopnormal.

What is your current mask supply situation?

We’ve been preparing for this since the last lockdown and nationwide, we have more than 8 million masks in our supply chain. Our teams are working tirelessly to get these through the system and onto store shelves for customers. If your store is low or out of mask supply, please rest assured that more stock is on the way – it’s simply making its way through. As always, we encourage customers to shop normally and only buy what they need, as they need it.

Will you be imposing product limitations on certain products?

We have an incredibly robust supply chain and our teams are working tirelessly to ensure a steady flow of product into stores around the country.

Before heading to the supermarket, we’re asking all customers to take a look in their pantry first – if it is still well stocked, please only buy what you need. By shopping normally, you are doing your part to help New Zealand fight Covid-19. Our store teams are doing their part by keeping shelves stocked, and we are introducing product limits for some in demand products in an effort to make sure there is plenty to go around.

Product limitations will vary by store. Please only buy what you need, as you need it. It’s important we continue to #shopnormal as this helps keep shelves stocked and ensures all New Zealanders can get the essentials they need.

Will your stores display the NZ Covid Tracer app? Are you requiring customers to scan before entering stores?

All stores across the country will have the NZ Covid Tracer app poster displayed at store entrances. We are encouraging all customers, no matter where they live or which store they visit, to please scan the QR code on the poster and follow the prompts to register. This is to keep you, other customers and staff safe in the event the Ministry of Health needs to implement contact tracing.

Are you requiring customers to wear masks in store?

In line with the Government’s direction, individuals living in Auckland are highly encouraged to cover their nose and mouth with a face covering when outside of their home. Therefore, we're asking all customers who live in the Auckland region and who come into store to please wear a face mask or cover their mouth and nose with a face covering.

As guided by the Government, individuals living outside of the greater Auckland region are not required to wear face masks.

Our stores have good supply of face masks, but if your local store is currently out of stock, rest assured more stock is on its way and please consider the Government’s advice of fashioning your own face mask in the meantime.

Are you requiring your staff to wear masks or other PPE?

The protective measures in place across our stores align with the Government’s Covid-19 health and safety guidance. This includes physical distancing measures, Perspex screens, increased sanitisation and cleaning protocols, managing customer numbers in store, and displaying the NZ Covid Tracer QR Code for customers to scan in the event contract tracing is necessary.

All of these measures are in place to keep people safe and to reduce contact. We have ample PPE stock for staff, which is readily available to them if they choose to wear it for their peace of mind.

Are you reinstating your emergency worker prioritization?

At this stage we have not reinstated priority access for emergency workers. We will review our position on this over the coming days.

Is Lotto still available?

Yes, store Lotto counters are still open, but we ask all customers to please be mindful and adhere to physical distancing measures.

How are you verifying identity for age restricted items? Are you asking customers to remove their masks if they are purchasing restricted items?

We are required by law to verify age for restricted items. This includes checking that the identification presented to purchase the items belongs to the customer present.

If a customer is wearing a mask, and staff cannot verify their identification, then we will ask the customer to briefly remove their mask so we can verify their identity. If a customer is unable or unwilling to remove their mask, then unfortunately staff may have to decline the sale.