No Changes To Our Mask Protocols

An update from our GM, Netse Lytle

Many of you have asked what Wild Oats is planning when the statewide mandate for wearing masks ends on May 29th.

First, a little background.

On May 16th, the CDC released guidance stating that fully vaccinated people may resume activities without wearing facial coverings or social distancing, except where required by law and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.

Governor Baker then echoed that guidance on May 18th, with an emphasis on respecting a business’ decision to do what works for them.

Over the past 14 months, the safety of our employees and our guests has been our first priority. The procedures we put in place allowed us to not only remain open every day of this pandemic, but also safely service our community and its needs without interruption.

Within that time frame, two employees tested positive, with neither case originating from here inside the co-op or jeopardizing their fellow teammates or their guests. All of this can be attributed to our focus on safety.

Currently, 36% of Berkshire County is fully vaccinated, 46% have received one dose and only 57% of our most at-risk population (seniors) are fully vaccinated. Not only are these statistics a concern for me, there is obviously no way to tell by looking at someone if they have been vaccinated or not.

Given those numbers, and the undeniable success of our past safety record, I do not believe this is the time to change our approach and I have made the decision that our mask policy will remain in place until further notice. This includes everyone who works here, shops here or otherwise enters the building.

For anyone unable or unwilling to continue to wear a mask inside the store, and for those who appreciate the convenience of the service, we continue to offer weekday curbside pickup to everyone with no minimum or maximum amount to purchase.

Safety continues to be our number one focus and your cooperation and support have helped make our co-op a safer place to be throughout the uncertainty of this past year. I will continue to monitor the situation and provide you with updates as more information becomes available.

For questions and comments, please contact me directly at gm@wildoats.coop or (413) 458-5317 x13.

Thank you for shopping at Wild Oats and being part of our cooperative family. I look forward to seeing you again soon.

Netse Lytle
General Manager