With the global outbreak of COVID-19, changes have had to be made in shopping habits to protect both employees and customers from potential infection. Whereas formerly shopping at the supermarket only had standard regulations such as only having 10 items when using fast checkout, the Coronavirus spread has added many more to keep everyone safe. 

Shopping in person has become much more dangerous and difficult with the spread of the Coronavirus. Face coverings and masks have become much more common and even mandatory in some states when venturing outside. Illinois will also be requiring the usage of a face covering when going to public areas as of May 1. Other preventative measures are also becoming more common, such as disposable gloves to prevent spread from often touched surfaces. Between March 2020 and March 2019, disposable glove sales have increased by 670%, as the public is trying to stay safe.

Online shopping has also taken off dramatically with the anxiety brought by the dangers of shopping in person. Packages and products tend to be safer when ordered online, as the spread of coronavirus is unlikely from mail. While mail does tend to be safer as it takes longer to arrive at your house, washing your hands and disinfecting the package is an extra step that could go a long way. Food delivery has also increased, and quite dramatically, as customers would rather stay home than risk going out for a meal. One popular food delivery service, Ubereats, has even waived delivery fees for small businesses as they have higher losses amidst the pandemic.

Coronavirus has changed society in a way that will very likely be lasting, including the way we shop. Safety procedures have prevented this outbreak from becoming even larger, and will hopefully continue to do so until the virus is under control. May 1 sees a nationwide chance to reopen under more sanitary and cautious conditions, and hopefully, the precautions taken now will extend through then as well.