Super market shopping

[sam&rog]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.

[thelegges]

Too little too late. Other counties did this in March, in all stores, with only a percentage allowed in at a time. We shopped in Gainesville where they were on top of it. Trader Joe’s only allowed 10 to 15 people in the store at a time. That meant only one shopper in checkout line. Average wait was 20 minutes. Target was about the same, with some departments roped off, such as clothing.

Always felt safe in Gainesville compared to the chaos in TV

[billethkid]

They simply do not care about anybody else.
They do it because there is no risk/threat to them doing so.

Yes they are the same inconsiderate drivers on the road(s).

[Nucky]

Publix = Instacart! Perfectly Priced and Reasonablely easy to use. Great Communication.

We miss going shopping but it is what it is!

Walmart = Pick Up. Pop the trunk they put in about 70% of what you ordered and on your way. No contact. A little disappointed the first time the entire order wasn't totally filled but whatareyougonnado?

Sam's Club = Shipping on some items & Pick Up on others. So far if you order something it is in your order unlike Walmart where its a crap shoot.

One Way Aisles? What is That? I don't wanna know!

[Stu from NYC]

Last week we were in Walmart and an employee showed us the signs and that we were going the wrong way. Had no idea.

Wonder how many others also did not know to follow the lines

[Happinow]

Last week we were in Walmart and an employee showed us the signs and that we were going the wrong way. Had no idea.

Wonder how many others also did not know to follow the lines
My husband went shopping yesterday at Publix and In an effort to get in and out as quickly as possible, he accidentally went the wrong direction down an isle. He said he was concentrating on finding the items I had on our shopping list and was looking at the signs above for which isle to find the items. He got some pretty rude comments. I think people need to understand that Grocery shopping is way different than it used to be. This is so out of the ordinary for all of us. It takes some getting used to. Maybe a little grace would be nice in these stressful times. Thank you.....

[Topspinmo]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.

No typical villagers

[John_W]

Either you haven't been shopping or Mulberry is behind the times. Publix at Colony and Walmart at Colony have had the arrows for about 3 weeks. However only about 50% of the people actually follow the arrows.

[mixsonci]

I went to Walmart on 466 yesterday and I noticed in the food section that the arrows telling you which way to go were in the middle of the aisle??? Made no sense, you had to go half way down the aisle to find out which way to go. I looked for an arrow at the end of the row but couldn't find one.

[Aw Man]

Too little too late. Other counties did this in March, in all stores, with only a percentage allowed in at a time. We shopped in Gainesville where they were on top of it. Trader Joe’s only allowed 10 to 15 people in the store at a time. That meant only one shopper in checkout line. Average wait was 20 minutes. Target was about the same, with some departments roped off, such as clothing.

Always felt safe in Gainesville compared to the chaos in TV

I've been shopping at Publix, Colony Plaza, once or twice each week for the past two months.
I have not witnessed anything even close to a chaotic situation while shopping at Publix.

[Moonrunner]

Those ignoring the obvious are probably the same people demanding America open up everything despite the rising numbers of virus case and deaths.

[NormaKW]

Agree. I saw on the news how Trader Joe’s was limitingshoppers early March. I went there to do my shopping.

[davem4616]

old habits are hard to break...it'll take some folks awhile yet to get the hang of it

I'm glad that Publix has installed the larger red directional signs on the aisles....the blue arrows just didn't have much of an impact

earlier in the week we were at the end of an aisle at Publix and a couple was about to enter the aisle approaching from the wrong direction....the wife was looking at the shelves, the husband was just following with the cart.

I politely said...'you're going the wrong way' The wife replied "oh, sorry" and adjusted.

yeah it's a pain having to go up one aisle and then come down another....and I'll cheat by leaving my cart and walking a few steps up into an aisle....but for the most part I'm pleased with the change

[tsmall22204]

Have you ever considered that shoppers are focused on getting their list and getting out of the store that they could have missed the arrows? Why do people jump to the conclusion that the shoppers dont care? Stop living your life with a half empty glass.

[Timothyimitchell]

old habits are hard to break...it'll take some folks awhile yet to get the hang of it

I'm glad that Publix has installed the larger red directional signs on the aisles....the blue arrows just didn't have much of an impact

earlier in the week we were at the end of an aisle at Publix and a couple was about to enter the aisle approaching from the wrong direction....the wife was looking at the shelves, the husband was just following with the cart.

I politely said...'you're going the wrong way' The wife replied "oh, sorry" and adjusted.

yeah it's a pain having to go up one aisle and then come down another....and I'll cheat by leaving my cart and walking a few steps up into an aisle....but for the most part I'm pleased with the change

The signs are ridiculous. They'll never work. We, as a people, do not like being told what to do with our lives, and how to live our life. We have been good little sheep for 2 months. Time to live our lives. Period.

[swooner]

They simply do not care about anybody else.
They do it because there is no risk/threat to them doing so.

Yes they are the same inconsiderate drivers on the road(s).
They are called "Villagers". Many think their poop doesn't stink and that they are entitled to do whatever they want. Yes, there are lots of them.

[beckyallen]

WalMart Grocery at Colony had one way aisles, most had masks and one line at checkout like a bank but a worker directed next in line as soon as the conveyor belt was completely emptied and it moved pretty fast.

[Jima64]

went shopping and found myself a couple of times looking at my list and not the direction arrow. realized my mistake and turned around. easy to do and not trying to be dumb about it. easy to follow the guidelines and hope I am helping myself and others to be safe. no problem for me.

[Fanfaron2014]

Funny thing... the other day I mentioned to someone she was going the wrong way... then a couple of aisles later someone mentioned to me that I was going the wrong way. HA! It happens in the best of families!

[ChicagoNative]

One way aisles are a great idea, and I’d like to see it stay in place after we all go back to “normal” life. Much better flow and efficiency, imo.

I don’t understand why the stores don’t broadcast this over their loudspeakers every few minutes as a reminder, because the floor markings are very easy to miss.

[Vonjor@gmail.com]

Instant gratification and “all about me”😖

Mistakes happen, but for those who intentionally disregard the rules, and with no patience, risk the lives and health of your neighbors, please stay away from our stores and use home delivery.
This is no time for behaving with a selfish attitude.

[matandch]

“Part of life” is now the real possibility of contracting Covid-19 while out and about and becoming seriously ill and dying. If you don’t want to heed the warnings and follow the rules that’s your prerogative. Good luck. You’ll need it.

[kenoc7]

The signs are ridiculous. They'll never work. We, as a people, do not like being told what to do with our lives, and how to live our life. We have been good little sheep for 2 months. Time to live our lives. Period.

"We, as a people, do not like being told what to do with our lives, and how to live our life. We have been good little sheep for 2 months."

As a person, I'm fine with being told what to do if it saves my life and the lives of people I love - and you should be too.

[GaryKoca]

I think it takes a while to get used to the one way signs. As far as the signs being difficult and you want to do whatever you want, what planet are you living on during this pandemic? BTW, Winn Dixie at Pinellas has been awful. No one way signs and they were out of the first three items we were looking for, and one of them was distilled water, which Walmart has lots of. So we walked out of Winn Dixie. I don't recommend it.

[photo1902]

This topic has been beaten to death.

One way, two way, whatever.

The other day I was the fifth person in line in one of the aisles, while the lead shopper was trying to decide which canned tomatoes to buy. I passed them all, at a safe distance. Seems to me that’s safer than spending 45 minutes in the store while the label readers.

[Leadbone1]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.

Maybe those shoppers that you are criticizing just think it’s stupid as I do. When you’re in front of the dairy, seafood or meat department you are mingling with those people. Even if you’re going the same direction down an aisle you’re still going to be near people and you’re going to be touching food items that potentially several other people may have already handled. You can pay someone to do your shopping for you if your that paranoid

[Travelingal702]

My husband went shopping yesterday at Publix and In an effort to get in and out as quickly as possible, he accidentally went the wrong direction down an isle. He said he was concentrating on finding the items I had on our shopping list and was looking at the signs above for which isle to find the items. He got some pretty rude comments. I think people need to understand that Grocery shopping is way different than it used to be. This is so out of the ordinary for all of us. It takes some getting used to. Maybe a little grace would be nice in these stressful times. Thank you.....
Agreed. There is no excuse for rudeness. I went shopping at the Walmart Market in Colony, and only after I got to the end of the aisle did I realize it was one way.....and I was going the wrong way. Since I do not shop there, I was focused on the overhead signs and didn't notice the floor arrows. Thankfully, no one said anything. Thereafter, I was conscious of the arrows and followed them. Please have a little understanding for people like me. We are neither ignorant nor do we feel entitled. Again, there is NO excuse for rudeness.

[Nuggybuggy]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.
I am so used to shopping “row to row” that I sometimes forget about the arrows. I’m not any of the things you mentioned; only been To the stores a couple of times, so, please forgive me until I get used to the new normal?

[Swoop]

One way isles are an absolutely ridiculous idea. People still pass one another. It does nothing to improve safety. It only slows you down, which means more time in an enclosed space. Like wearing gloves, it gives some people a feeling of safety, without actually delivering!

[shortstack]

I do not see what difference it makes on which direction you are going as long as you are respectful to the other shoppers and do reasonable social distancing.

[shortstack]

I am like you. I sure hope this ISN'T the new normal. Herding is for sheep. Just be patient and respectful to other shoppers

[graciegirl]

The signs are ridiculous. They'll never work. We, as a people, do not like being told what to do with our lives, and how to live our life. We have been good little sheep for 2 months. Time to live our lives. Period.

I don't, nor have ever, had problems with rules that are fair. Rules that are there to help us. Guidelines that have been placed to make it safer and easier in a very unusual time.

I have to wonder why someone would say "The signs are ridiculous. We don't like being told what to do. We have been good little sheep for 2 months. Time to live our lives."

Good people both lead and follow.

[graciegirl]

They are called "Villagers". Many think their poop doesn't stink and that they are entitled to do whatever they want. Yes, there are lots of them.

You a "towny" that is too young to live here? Maybe some are, but not many. I have to wonder what triggered that attitude?

Lot of pot stirring posts by folks we haven't heard from before.

[photo1902]

I don't, nor have ever, had problems with rules that are fair. Rules that are there to help us. Guidelines that have been placed to make it safer and easier in a very unusual time.

I have to wonder why someone would say "The signs are ridiculous. We don't like being told what to do. We have been good little sheep for 2 months. Time to live our lives."

Good people both lead and follow.

So you feel is it “safer” to follow behind people, who are inhaling and exhaling, as opposed to passing them in the opposite direction.

How is that more safe?

[Mumbles]

The signs are ridiculous. They'll never work. We, as a people, do not like being told what to do with our lives, and how to live our life. We have been good little sheep for 2 months. Time to live our lives. Period.

Living your life does not mean "to H*ll with everybody else. I'm gonna do whatever I want." A country with an overwhelming number of the population thinking that way may as well shut down.

In any case, it is quite obvious those types of people are in a very small minority, like the protestors in Michigan. Thank the Guy upstairs!
:ohdear:

[Jazzman]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.

Maybe if they hung the signs from the ceiling more shoppers would see the signs. How many shoppers pushing a shopping cart look at the floor while shopping and those signs on the floor at their widest point look about 9 inches in width. Just saying.

[Windguy]

I am like you. I sure hope this ISN'T the new normal. Herding is for sheep. Just be patient and respectful to other shoppers

I hope I’m never on a one-way street when you are around.

[chuckster]

I agree....very orderly

[argos5usa]

These in-store rules are dumb and useless and are just examples of companies trying to jump on the bandwagon...Let's get back to normal, shall we?

[Joanne19335]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.

Same thing at Southern Trace. When I kindly pointed out the one-way rule to another shopper, she looked me straight in the eye and said, “I don’t care” and kept going the wrong way.” They are not ignorant. They are selfish.

[photo1902]

Same thing at Southern Trace. When I kindly pointed out the one-way rule to another shopper, she looked me straight in the eye and said, “I don’t care” and kept going the wrong way.” They are not ignorant. They are selfish.

Simple solution. Get in, get your stuff, and get out.

Why you feel the need to correct someone is beyond me.

Do you also chastise people not wearing masks?

[Dana1963]

Sure we will let him go down up isles everyone else will follow directions

[Slapnut]

I don't believe one way aisles is going to keep you or me from getting this so called virus. It's just another control method for big brother to see how far they can control us.

[MaryAnneC]

I am a rule follower. However, the first time I went shopping at a store with one-way aisles, there was no sign on the door alerting me to a change. I wondered why I was getting dirty looks until someone from Publix made an announcement over the PA system,
asking that people follow the signs and go one-way. Only then did I notice the signs on the floor. Please give people the benefit of the doubt!

[ithos]

I wouldn't have an issue with a business requiring masks as that gives other shoppers peace of mind and perhaps even prevents spreading. But is there a study to show that one way lanes mitigate propagation of the virus? Seems like to me that shoppers will now have to do more walking and consequently pass by more shoppers and spending more time in the store.

[coffeebean]

Have you ever considered that shoppers are focused on getting their list and getting out of the store that they could have missed the arrows? Why do people jump to the conclusion that the shoppers dont care? Stop living your life with a half empty glass.

Some shoppers don't care to follow the rules. In Colony Publix, I very calmly and respectfully said to an elderly gentleman that he was going in the wrong direction and pointed to the large round circle on the floor that said WRONG WAY X DO NOT ENTER. He waved his hand at me as if to dismiss what I had just said to him. He continued on walking..........in the wrong direction.

[coffeebean]

The signs are ridiculous. They'll never work. We, as a people, do not like being told what to do with our lives, and how to live our life. We have been good little sheep for 2 months. Time to live our lives. Period.

Do you stop at stop signs when driving? How about yielding at a yield sign? Just wondering.

[coffeebean]

One way aisles are a great idea, and I’d like to see it stay in place after we all go back to “normal” life. Much better flow and efficiency, imo.

I don’t understand why the stores don’t broadcast this over their loudspeakers every few minutes as a reminder, because the floor markings are very easy to miss.

I will abide by the one way aisles as long as it is necessary to mitigate this virus but I most certainly do not want this to be a new normal.

As for the floor markings being easy to miss......I don't think so. Publix has replaced the thin blue painter's tape with big circles that catch the eye very easily, IMHO. Seems other stores are on board with the big bold signs also.

[coffeebean]

This topic has been beaten to death.

One way, two way, whatever.

The other day I was the fifth person in line in one of the aisles, while the lead shopper was trying to decide which canned tomatoes to buy. I passed them all, at a safe distance. Seems to me that’s safer than spending 45 minutes in the store while the label readers.

I don't consider it a "line". I'm not "in line" as I walk through the aisles of a store. I don't mind people stopping and pondering or reading labels. I just hold my breath and pass them. I'm "in line" at the check out and will wait my turn as I always have.

[ithos]

Do you stop at stop signs when driving? How about yielding at a yield sign? Just wondering.

How can you conflate the two? If you run stop signs you have a wreck and people may die. Why don't you explain how one way lanes enhance social distancing when it may require you to take a much longer route to purchase an item. In the process you may travel down a different aisle unnecessarily in which you will probably pass by even more shoppers.

[coffeebean]

I am so used to shopping “row to row” that I sometimes forget about the arrows. I’m not any of the things you mentioned; only been To the stores a couple of times, so, please forgive me until I get used to the new normal?

I hope this is not a new normal......a temporary normal is what I can deal with.

[graciegirl]

So you feel is it “safer” to follow behind people, who are inhaling and exhaling, as opposed to passing them in the opposite direction.

How is that more safe?

I really don't have any personal feelings about it being safer. I haven't been "out" since March 4th.

I just have great respect for how Publix have always managed their business and I am appalled at all the folks who are marching over their "freedoms" being taken away. These are unusual times and it calls for unusual and temporary rules in place.. Some people are born, and will die with...."You ain't gonna tell me nuthin'" attitude....and I will go on record as saying, I don't like those kinds of people.

[coffeebean]

You a "towny" that is too young to live here? Maybe some are, but not many. I have to wonder what triggered that attitude?

Lot of pot stirring posts by folks we haven't heard from before.

I know. Right? I'm noticing lots of new posters with less than 20 posts. Where are all these people coming from? Out of the woodwork?

[DonnaNi4os]

One way aisles are no different than one way arrows painted on the roads in the parking lot. I think it is a great idea and I wish they would keep it that way. It makes perfect sense to me. I found that it makes the aisles much less congested.

[ithos]

I really don't have any personal feelings about it being safer. I haven't been "out" since March 4th.

I just have great respect for how Publix have always managed their business and I am appalled at all the folks who are marching over their "freedoms" being taken away. These are unusual times and it calls for unusual and temporary rules in place.. Some people are born, and will die with...."You ain't gonna tell me nuthin'" attitude....and I will go on record as saying, I don't like those kinds of people.

are not in general rejecting a temporary deprivation of their Constitutional rights. They simply expect a rational justification for maintaining a chokehold on the economy as they are losing their jobs and homes or seeing their life savings wiped out. This is especially true in areas that have been spared the worst of the disease spreading.

Better to be skeptical of our leaders than to act like obsequious sheep.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

This topic has been beaten to death.

One way, two way, whatever.

The other day I was the fifth person in line in one of the aisles, while the lead shopper was trying to decide which canned tomatoes to buy. I passed them all, at a safe distance. Seems to me that’s safer than spending 45 minutes in the store while the label readers.

Passing them at a safe distance would not have been possible, if someone was coming toward you from the other end of the aisle. Hence, the one-way aisles.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Maybe those shoppers that you are criticizing just think it’s stupid as I do. When you’re in front of the dairy, seafood or meat department you are mingling with those people. Even if you’re going the same direction down an aisle you’re still going to be near people and you’re going to be touching food items that potentially several other people may have already handled. You can pay someone to do your shopping for you if your that paranoid

It's called risk reduction and best practices. You can't eliminate all risk. But you absolutely can reduce it. This is one method of reducing risk.

I think it's stupid to have to completely stop at a red light even though it's obvious no one is approaching from any other direction at the intersection. And yet - I come to a complete stop. Even if I have the "right on red." The traffic light exists to protect me, and every other driver, and pedestrian, on the road. At 2 in the morning when there's no one else around for a mile, it seems stupid to have it. But there it is. And I'll abide by it, however frustrating it might be.

[fdpaq0580]

Sadly, I'm afraid there is no "one size fits all" solution when it comes to shopping. Some folks only need a few items and may not know in which aisle and on which shelf where they may be. Others need many things spread through out the store. Without an encyclopedic knowledge of the store and stock, shopping is often more time consuming than it might be. I agree with those who don't like the one way aisle system since it makes the hunt for what you need take far more time than it ordinarily would and increasing exposure time.
Having said that, I, for one, will be wearing my mask and doing my imperfect best to follow the recommendations.

[photo1902]

Passing them at a safe distance would not have been possible, if someone was coming toward you from the other end of the aisle. Hence, the one-way aisles.

So the better choice would’ve been to follow the train of others in front of me? I guess the air they exhaled would magically dissipate while I followed them up and down each aisle?

No thanks. Get your stuff, minimize the amount of time inside the store, then get out.

[Byte1]

Previous to this change, I had mentioned to my spouse that the stores with narrow aisles should make them one way. The other day, I went into Publix for the first time since this pandemic and did not even notice the signs until someone mentioned it to me, that I was going the wrong way. I have to admit that the person that mentioned it to me was a bit snooty, but I still thanked her for bringing it to my attention. I was glad to see the change and feel they ought to keep it that way, since the space is too limited to barely get two carts pass each other. The only signs I noticed were on the floor and I was more intent on getting my shopping done and out of there than to even notice the signs on the floor.
Walmart has narrow aisles also, here in the Villages. It makes one wonder why the store would have it so narrow when they have so many seniors using those electric carts. Leesburg has wide aisles with plenty of room to easily maneuver carts when shopping. Too bad the Walmart in the Villages doesn't consider the constant bumping of the carts and bodies. And yes, some seniors do not operate vehicles as adeptly as younger folks. Everybody becomes that way eventually, unless you don't live long enough.

I do not consider a person making a mistake to be an idiot or careless. But, I do believe folks that throw stones due to their own misery, to be boorish. Hopefully, someone is not speaking of you as you are speaking of others.

[Swoop]

Think of the hypocrisy, the isle is one way, but when you reach the end of the isle you can turn left or right. There are no “arrows” in front of the meat or dairy. This is nothing more than the store’s attempt to pander to the fear mongers. If you’re afraid to be out - stay in.

[NavyVet]

All everyone sees, hears and reads about is the pandemic, etc. One would have to be living under a rock for the past 2 months + to be that clueless that things are different. It's impossible that so many people are that oblivious to signs and rules. Seriously, it's NOT rocket science, people. TRY to just be AWARE of your surroundings and behaviors in public for the safety and sake of ALL Humans. It's really not that hard to do - things are just different now. Pay attention and deal with it.
Also, really sick of those rude, insensitive, thoughtless ones who call cautious, immuno-compromised people "maskies." Just because you are in perfect health and/or don't care if you get the virus, doesn't make it okay for you endanger the rest of us who have to risk going out for necessary essentials.
Everything is a matter of perspective. The NEEDS of people who are sick and dying, have other health issues, have loved ones dying in locked down facilities, have lost jobs or businesses, are struggling to get by to put food on the table, are putting themselves at risk for essential jobs taking care of everyone else, etc. certainly TRUMPS the WANTS of the entitled, retired Villagers who are boohooing about pickleball, pools, softball, rec centers, golf, entertainment, yada, yada, yada. Sure makes you sound narcissistic.
Why can't you be grateful that you have a safe comfortable roof over your head and amuse yourself at home? The sooner everyone cooperates and does their part, the sooner the temporary inconvenience ends. Things may never return to the way they were before coronavirus, but we can adjust to the new normal. This pandemic should be a wake up call to us all.

[cj740@comcast.net]

Have you ever considered that shoppers are focused on getting their list and getting out of the store that they could have missed the arrows? Why do people jump to the conclusion that the shoppers dont care? Stop living your life with a half empty glass.

I truly believe that most shoppers just don't see the arrows. I am an abide-by-the-rules person and I didn't see them at all when Publix started this. You are right - people are - understandably - focused on their lists or the shelves. Patience.:clap2:

[yankygrl]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.
All publix have done that. I was at Colony the other day late afternoon and they actually made an announcement. People were still not social distancing or going the correct way. They are either deaf or just don't care. Question is what came be done? Can you ask them to leave immediately?

[golfing eagles]

One way aisles are a great idea, and I’d like to see it stay in place after we all go back to “normal” life. Much better flow and efficiency, imo.

I don’t understand why the stores don’t broadcast this over their loudspeakers every few minutes as a reminder, because the floor markings are very easy to miss.

No, one way aisles are an idiotic idea. I can't see how they enhance social distancing, you will come just as close to someone stopped in the aisle regardless of which way you are going. And don't EVEN THINK of suggesting that you wait for the person ahead to move along. NEVER GOING TO HAPPEN. I'm never going to stand behind Ma and Pa Kettle who are busy reading the soup label to compare milligrams of sodium and cholesterol in competing brands of chicken noodle.

One way isles are an absolutely ridiculous idea. People still pass one another. It does nothing to improve safety. It only slows you down, which means more time in an enclosed space. Like wearing gloves, it gives some people a feeling of safety, without actually delivering!

Absolutely agree!

I do not see what difference it makes on which direction you are going as long as you are respectful to the other shoppers and do reasonable social distancing.

Bingo!!!

[big guy]

They simply do not care about anybody else.
They do it because there is no risk/threat to them doing so.

Yes they are the same inconsiderate drivers on the road(s).

Hold on there! You have no idea what people are thinking.

I am one that went the wrong way for a couple of aisles the first time I went to Publix after they started that program until a shopper coming towards me leaned over and said, "You are going the wrong way". She said that she had done the same thing the first time she went to the store after they implemented the one-way traffic rule and she was very nice about it.

I don't look at the floor when I grocery shop. I am looking for specific items on the shelves. I am a compliant person usually and if I am inconsiderate, it is not intentional.

Pushing a buggy in the grocery store has nothing to do with how I drive.

[coffeebean]

Simple solution. Get in, get your stuff, and get out.

Why you feel the need to correct someone is beyond me.

Do you also chastise people not wearing masks?

Why not? I think of it as not a correction but to inform someone who may be oblivious to the signage. We are all trying to do our part to get through this pandemic.

[coffeebean]

It's called risk reduction and best practices. You can't eliminate all risk. But you absolutely can reduce it. This is one method of reducing risk.

I think it's stupid to have to completely stop at a red light even though it's obvious no one is approaching from any other direction at the intersection. And yet - I come to a complete stop. Even if I have the "right on red." The traffic light exists to protect me, and every other driver, and pedestrian, on the road. At 2 in the morning when there's no one else around for a mile, it seems stupid to have it. But there it is. And I'll abide by it, however frustrating it might be.
Up north (NY/NJ) many of the lights would be flashing red in the middle of the night. I don't see that so much here in Florida though; maybe because I'm not usually driving around in the middle of the night as I get older.

[coffeebean]

So the better choice would’ve been to follow the train of others in front of me? I guess the air they exhaled would magically dissipate while I followed them up and down each aisle?

No thanks. Get your stuff, minimize the amount of time inside the store, then get out.

That is not how I read what OBB said. OBB said that being able to pass people in the one way aisle is the safer way to go than having two way aisles. With a two way aisle, passing anyone will bring you closer to a shopper who is coming in the opposite direction that you are traveling. It really does make sense to have one way aisles to prevent folks from getting too close when passing a shopper who is reading labels or just pondering their purchase.

[photo1902]

That is not how I read what OBB said. OBB said that being able to pass people in the one way aisle is the safer way to go than having two way aisles. With a two way aisle, passing anyone will bring you closer to a shopper who is coming in the opposite direction that you are traveling. It really does make sense to have one way aisles to prevent folks from getting too close when passing a shopper who is reading labels or just pondering their purchase.

Completely absurd, imho.

[golfing eagles]

Completely absurd, imho.

add my opinion as well

[CFrance]

Maybe if they hung the signs from the ceiling more shoppers would see the signs. How many shoppers pushing a shopping cart look at the floor while shopping and those signs on the floor at their widest point look about 9 inches in width. Just saying.
They should be hanging at eye level from the shelves! That's where you're looking, not the floor. Especially now, when so many items are missing.

We went to Publix Lake Deaton three weeks ago. I never even saw the floor signs. I went down the wrong way and a lady pointed it out to me. We turned right around. Then we encountered people ourselves going the wrong way. One guy looked at me, looked at the floor, immediately turned around.

I said to my husband that they should remind people on the loud speaker since it was something new for that store. A few minutes later they did.


That arrogant lady aside, I don't think most people are selfish. It's hard to change your habits, and the signs should not be on the floor.

[CFrance]

I will abide by the one way aisles as long as it is necessary to mitigate this virus but I most certainly do not want this to be a new normal.

As for the floor markings being easy to miss......I don't think so. Publix has replaced the thin blue painter's tape with big circles that catch the eye very easily, IMHO. Seems other stores are on board with the big bold signs also.
I totally disagree. Nobody's looking at the floor, they're looking at the shelves. They are also looking straight ahead when they enter an aisle, or up at the sign hanging from the ceiling telling what the categories in that aisle are. Give people a break. Also, at Lake Deaton Publix the produce aisle had no signs directing traffic at all. So you go from that area to the next, and unless you didn't already know it, chances are you were unaware they had started the one-way deal.

A big sign at the carts would be helpful. Then announcements. Those TWO people who were arrogant will probably be doing it correctly next time. They needed to save face from some hall monitor telling them of their infraction.

[CarolSells]

Think of the hypocrisy, the aisle is one way, but when you reach the end of the aisle you can turn left or right. There are no “arrows” in front of the meat or dairy. This is nothing more than the store’s attempt to pander to the fear mongers. If you’re afraid to be out - stay in.

The other day I was at Walmart on 441. Not that many people but it was chaotic because people were trying to follow the arrows but the isles were jammed with stockers and their large carts/shelves on wheels. If you tried to walk down that isle they almost acted like you were invisible and walked almost into you!
“Pickers” who were filling orders invaded my 6’ on a number of occasions. One young woman monopolized the milk and creamer dairy case for about 5 minutes because she looked at her phone with the list and back at the shelves again and again as if she had never shopped before. ������

People had to pause at the ends of isles (causing traffic jams) to decide if the isle had what they wanted and which approach to take to secure said item.

The stores are worried about the almighty $!

Yes, aisles.

[PugMom]

like many of you, i abide by rules set. yes, i have the mistake of going down the wrong aisle. yes, i've passed by someone in a mask @ a distance of 4 feet. no, i don't wear a mask but i give people LOTS of space, & may even let them go 1st out of respect to a kind face. i want my freedom back, but i don't want to kill anyone as a result, lol. i go out often with the dogs & am just 'aware' of others, but it's time to relax. so many getting so upset over such little things, it's time to use personal judgement. if you're scared or @ high risk, you obviously want to stay in.

[Barborv]

They have been doing the one way isles here in NY for awhile and dots at the check out. Yes most people I think are just oblivious to what's going on around them. But there is also the case that someone might not realize and a friendly, " excuse me, youre going the wrong way" Can go a long way And everyone should be wearing masks and gloves when in public areas.

[NoMoSno]

Brings a whole new meaning to: "some people learned to drive in a grocery store".
Maybe carts should be equipped with horns.
Turn signals would never be used, so useless.

[Rosie1950]

Anyone ever shop at a Stew Leonard’s?
The isles have always been one way. 2 things happened if u don’t follow the flow. 1) you are chastised by fellow shoppers and in CT it’s VERY direct no sugar added. 2) if u try to leave an isle without going ALL the way through the store, it’s 90% impossible to find the checkouts.
Here at Publix I rather like the one way, if it happens to be busy it’s much easier to get out of an isle with the shoppers that look, touch and feel everything. I don’t mind those shoppers to each his own, I hate shopping so I like to get in and out.
And I won’t go to Stew’s again the place is huge and I don’t want to walk the store if I’m done shopping.

[Ruthcrane]

I think people miss the signs because they are on the floor and the carts block their visibility. A better spot for the signs might be at eye level, maybe on the end cap?

[Jazzman]

A marketing tool used by S Leonard for quite a bit of time. Plan is maybe you’ll see something you didn’t plan on buying.

[coffeebean]

I totally disagree. Nobody's looking at the floor, they're looking at the shelves. They are also looking straight ahead when they enter an aisle, or up at the sign hanging from the ceiling telling what the categories in that aisle are. Give people a break. Also, at Lake Deaton Publix the produce aisle had no signs directing traffic at all. So you go from that area to the next, and unless you didn't already know it, chances are you were unaware they had started the one-way deal.

A big sign at the carts would be helpful. Then announcements. Those TWO people who were arrogant will probably be doing it correctly next time. They needed to save face from some hall monitor telling them of their infraction.

How about we agree to disagree. I'm fine with that.

[boobear51751]

They do drive that way and they raised their children to be arrogant citizens as well. Bet their grandchildren are morons too. There should be a loudspeaker that yells, man in yellow shirt and green poke-a-pants is going the wrong way in isle 4. Please obey the rules or leave the store. I would have no problem with standing at the front door and give instructions to each person coming in. We need big bouncers at the front doors to keep people in line. Thank you store managers for trying to deal with idiots who are not smarter than a 5th grader.

[Ecuadog]

They do drive that way and they raised their children to be arrogant citizens as well. Bet their grandchildren are morons too. There should be a loudspeaker that yells, man in yellow shirt and green poke-a-pants is going the wrong way in isle 4. Please obey the rules or leave the store. I would have no problem with standing at the front door and give instructions to each person coming in. We need big bouncers at the front doors to keep people in line. Thank you store managers for trying to deal with idiots who are not smarter than a 5th grader.

Thanks for the laugh. You're a real hoot. Funniest post yet.

[delima2000]

I like the idea of one way aisles . Less congestion . You can easily go around people who are checking out the products on the shelf. May times I had to wait because the person in front of me is checking the shelves and another person is coming up the other way then they stop to check out the products so I have to,say excuse me I need to,get around you and they look at me in horror. Keep the one way aisles.

[Swoop]

I like the idea of one way aisles . Less congestion . You can easily go around people who are checking out the products on the shelf. May times I had to wait because the person in front of me is checking the shelves and another person is coming up the other way then they stop to check out the products so I have to,say excuse me I need to,get around you and they look at me in horror. Keep the one way aisles.

That makes no sense on so many levels. First, the odds are the same that two people going in the same direction will stop to pick items from different sides of the isle, effectively blocking the isle. In addition if you need something that is 10’ up an isle, rather than go get it you have to go completely up an adjoining isle and back down the isle to reach the item you need. Now you have added to the congestion in two isles...

[golfing eagles]

That makes no sense on so many levels. First, the odds are the same that two people going in the same direction will stop to pick items from different sides of the isle, effectively blocking the isle. In addition if you need something that is 10’ up an isle, rather than go get it you have to go completely up an adjoining isle and back down the isle to reach the item you need. Now you have added to the congestion in two isles...

Agree 99% The other 1% is for the spelling of AISLES:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[kathy1516]

I was thinking the same thing. That should have been done 2 months ago! Too little too late. Why bother now. Everything’s about to open up.

[coffeebean]

That makes no sense on so many levels. First, the odds are the same that two people going in the same direction will stop to pick items from different sides of the isle, effectively blocking the isle. In addition if you need something that is 10’ up an isle, rather than go get it you have to go completely up an adjoining isle and back down the isle to reach the item you need. Now you have added to the congestion in two isles...

I'm in favor of the one way aisles but you have made me think twice about that. I agree with this too. Hmmmm.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I think people miss the signs because they are on the floor and the carts block their visibility. A better spot for the signs might be at eye level, maybe on the end cap?

We had them on the end cap at eye level and people just ignored it. It's basically visual overload at supermarkets, it's a psychological thing. There are signs all over the place and you can bet that 80-90% of the customers will have no recollection of any of them, if you were to ask them about it at checkout (as in, an exit survey).

Ask any random customer "did you see a sale sign on any shelf, for any item, during your visit?" They'll say of course they did. Then ask them to specify at least two of them. They won't be able to answer.

They don't notice the one-way signs no matter where they are. There are signs at eye level as you go into the building that says:


CLEAN CARTS
<---- <---- <-----
And you might be standing under one of those signs, washing a cart that just came into the store from the parking lot, and MOST customers will either reach for the other carts next to you (where the carts that aren't cleaned yet go), or will ask you "are these the clean ones?"

Customers don't read signs. Period, full stop.

We do our part by providing them with the information they need to do what they need to do. They choose to ignore it.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I totally disagree. Nobody's looking at the floor, they're looking at the shelves. They are also looking straight ahead when they enter an aisle, or up at the sign hanging from the ceiling telling what the categories in that aisle are. Give people a break. Also, at Lake Deaton Publix the produce aisle had no signs directing traffic at all. So you go from that area to the next, and unless you didn't already know it, chances are you were unaware they had started the one-way deal.

A big sign at the carts would be helpful. Then announcements. Those TWO people who were arrogant will probably be doing it correctly next time. They needed to save face from some hall monitor telling them of their infraction.

You know, there are lots of signs on the shelves. Signs like "Due to the virus, we permit our customers to buy only ONE of the items on this shelf." Or "Due to the virus, we are limiting customers to only TWO of each type of these items." Or, "B0G0 17-24oz Kellogg's" or "SALE 2/$5.00 12-oz cans Bush's Baked Beans, any flavor"

And the lady in front of you at the cash register has 5 cans of Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup, 4 boxes of Scotties Tissues, 3 packages of toilet paper, 4 14-ounce Kellogg's Rice Crispies cereal, and 2 12-oz cans of B&M Baked Beans.

And she demands that you honor the sales prices for all the things she didn't buy, because she insists there were signs. And no she didn't see any signs limiting her on any items at all, obviously WE made a mistake of forgetting to put them up.

To reiterate:
Customers don't read signs.

[Villages Kahuna]

I was a Huge Sam’s Club fan. But the last several times I’ve tried to place an order online I got the error message “No pickup times available”. I finally called the store and was told to try to place my order right at midnight when they make new pickup times available. I got the impression that the problem is that Sam’s only permits pickups for about two hours every day, very early in the morning. Dumb IMHO. They’re losing a lot of business. I’ve found WalMart’s pickup service terrific. Very well organized. Got everything on our shopping list, even high quality toilet paper!! We were in and out in about ten minutes.

[CFrance]

Agree 99% The other 1% is for the spelling of AISLES:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
It's like when people call a leash a lease.:boom:

[CFrance]

You know, there are lots of signs on the shelves. Signs like "Due to the virus, we permit our customers to buy only ONE of the items on this shelf." Or "Due to the virus, we are limiting customers to only TWO of each type of these items." Or, "B0G0 17-24oz Kellogg's" or "SALE 2/$5.00 12-oz cans Bush's Baked Beans, any flavor"

And the lady in front of you at the cash register has 5 cans of Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup, 4 boxes of Scotties Tissues, 3 packages of toilet paper, 4 14-ounce Kellogg's Rice Crispies cereal, and 2 12-oz cans of B&M Baked Beans.

And she demands that you honor the sales prices for all the things she didn't buy, because she insists there were signs. And no she didn't see any signs limiting her on any items at all, obviously WE made a mistake of forgetting to put them up.

To reiterate:
Customers don't read signs.
So those are scammers. I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about not noticing a sign on the floor when you're naturally looking over at a shelf or up at the sign designating the items on that aisle.


I worked at a doughnut shop in high school. I was a waitress in college. I hated working with the public and couldn't wait to get out of that. I feel/know your pain and aggravation, but what I'm talking about is completely different. The people I'm talking about are not arrogant; they just don't have much situational awareness.


Somebody needs to stand at the entrance with a bull horn (metaphorically) or just bag the whole idea and let people distance themselves.


I can stay 6 feet away from people by myself without any help from Publix. Wear a mask and gloves. Take your groceries home, unload them and wash your hands.

[eyc234]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.


:faint: :faint::faint: Just totally oblivious people!! I did not see the huge sign in the middle of the aisle like a big a__ snake! How about pay attention, the signs are everywhere, open your eyes and pay attention!!! Is this the same excuse used when you run a stop sign and kill people?

[CFrance]

:faint: :faint::faint: Just totally oblivious people!! I did not see the huge sign in the middle of the aisle like a big a__ snake! How about pay attention, the signs are everywhere, open your eyes and pay attention!!! Is this the same excuse used when you run a stop sign and kill people?
Where did you see a biga$$ sign in the middle of the aisle? What signs are everywhere except on the floor at Publix? As of last week when we were there, the only signs were on the floor, period.

[Number 10 GI]

I have been doing most of the shopping the last few months due to my wife's health. She used to do all the shopping and knows where everything is. I don't, so most of the time I'm looking at the overhead signs that list what items are in that aisle and have a few times forgot to look at the floor for the sign. All those times when I discovered that I was going the wrong way I turned around and went in the correct direction.
Where do some of you people get off getting nasty with someone over something this trivial? I guarantee that if I could look into your life you probably do some things that really annoy others. I'm a polite and courteous person when I'm treated in that manner but don't get all arrogant and superior with me if I absently mindedly go the wrong way. I can guarantee that I will invade you 6' of space and get nose to nose with you and show how haughty and arrogant I can be.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Where did you see a biga$$ sign in the middle of the aisle? What signs are everywhere except on the floor at Publix? As of last week when we were there, the only signs were on the floor, period.

Several signs on the front door, before you even get inside the building. Sign at the deli. A couple of signs at customer service. A couple of signs on in the back on the tables that hold sales items.

The signs are EVERYWHERE reminding people to keep a 6' distance, and to honor the one-way aisle setup.

And there are announcements every hour - and if they remember and aren't busy, every half-hour, reminding them verbally.

And I ran into two customers going the wrong way - I reminded them that we're trying to do the one-way aisles now...they turned around, and then went the wrong way down the next aisle too.

These aren't scammers. They just are in their own world, and reject any reality that doesn't fit their narrative.

They don't read signs. They don't listen when someone reminds them of something they don't want to hear. They don't follow instructions that they don't like. They're not trying to scam anyone. They're just oblivious.

The same as the people who insist there weren't any "ONLY ONE PACKAGE OF PAPER" signs all over every shelf in the paper aisle. They didn't notice the signs because they weren't looking for signs. They were looking for packages of toilet paper, found them, and grabbed a few.

And they're the same people who go the wrong way on the one-way aisles. People are creatures of habit. They aren't used to change, they don't welcome change. When change happens, their minds resist - and sometimes - their minds will reject the change and deny it.

We just have to be patient with people, and explain politely that this is how it is. Eventually people will create new habits that fit with the new reality.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I have been doing most of the shopping the last few months due to my wife's health. She used to do all the shopping and knows where everything is. I don't, so most of the time I'm looking at the overhead signs that list what items are in that aisle and have a few times forgot to look at the floor for the sign. All those times when I discovered that I was going the wrong way I turned around and went in the correct direction.
Where do some of you people get off getting nasty with someone over something this trivial? I guarantee that if I could look into your life you probably do some things that really annoy others. I'm a polite and courteous person when I'm treated in that manner but don't get all arrogant and superior with me if I absently mindedly go the wrong way. I can guarantee that I will invade you 6' of space and get nose to nose with you and show how haughty and arrogant I can be.

It's not trivial. The fact that you think it is, is part of why we have the rules in the first place. Because there are some people who will deny there's even a problem that needs to be solved, while people are dying from the non-existent problem.

And - if you "get nose to nose" with someone during a pandemic while there are actual rules requiring you to keep your distance, don't be surprised some day, if someone calls the police to complain about being physically harassed and threatened. You can get nose to nose with an officer.

[CFrance]

Several signs on the front door, before you even get inside the building. Sign at the deli. A couple of signs at customer service. A couple of signs on in the back on the tables that hold sales items.

The signs are EVERYWHERE reminding people to keep a 6' distance, and to honor the one-way aisle setup.

And there are announcements every hour - and if they remember and aren't busy, every half-hour, reminding them verbally.

And I ran into two customers going the wrong way - I reminded them that we're trying to do the one-way aisles now...they turned around, and then went the wrong way down the next aisle too.

These aren't scammers. They just are in their own world, and reject any reality that doesn't fit their narrative.

They don't read signs. They don't listen when someone reminds them of something they don't want to hear. They don't follow instructions that they don't like. They're not trying to scam anyone. They're just oblivious.

The same as the people who insist there weren't any "ONLY ONE PACKAGE OF PAPER" signs all over every shelf in the paper aisle. They didn't notice the signs because they weren't looking for signs. They were looking for packages of toilet paper, found them, and grabbed a few.

And they're the same people who go the wrong way on the one-way aisles. People are creatures of habit. They aren't used to change, they don't welcome change. When change happens, their minds resist - and sometimes - their minds will reject the change and deny it.

We just have to be patient with people, and explain politely that this is how it is. Eventually people will create new habits that fit with the new reality.
Where do you work, if you don't mind saying? There were no signs like that at the Publix at Lake Deaton as of last week. Maybe they've beefed it up since then. There were just one-way signs on the floor and marks at the checkout.


I always notice the little signs that say did you remember your reusable bags. There is only one sign, and it's at the front. I think I would have seen the signs you are talking about at Lake Deaton.


I think the best thing some stores have done are the sneeze guards and six-feet "wait here" at the checkouts. I don't think the one-way aisles do much good. You still have to pass people who are loitering while trying to make their choices. It could take hours to shop if you had to stop and wait for each person in front of you to make a choice. Wear a mask and push on around them. Otherwise, I can figure out on my own how to keep six feet away.


I'm sorry you have to deal with idiots and arrogant people.

[JoMar]

I have been doing most of the shopping the last few months due to my wife's health. She used to do all the shopping and knows where everything is. I don't, so most of the time I'm looking at the overhead signs that list what items are in that aisle and have a few times forgot to look at the floor for the sign. All those times when I discovered that I was going the wrong way I turned around and went in the correct direction.
Where do some of you people get off getting nasty with someone over something this trivial? I guarantee that if I could look into your life you probably do some things that really annoy others. I'm a polite and courteous person when I'm treated in that manner but don't get all arrogant and superior with me if I absently mindedly go the wrong way. I can guarantee that I will invade you 6' of space and get nose to nose with you and show how haughty and arrogant I can be.

As long as you recognize your error and turn around tht's great, but if you continue you will pass within the 6' and that's your bad. So nose to nose goes both ways, a bit like Russian Roulette, you don't know what's in their nose and it it's coming at you.

[coffeebean]

..............The same as the people who insist there weren't any "ONLY ONE PACKAGE OF PAPER" signs all over every shelf in the paper aisle. They didn't notice the signs because they weren't looking for signs. They were looking for packages of toilet paper, found them, and grabbed a few..............


What happens when these people arrive at the register with multiple items that have restrictions of the amount of purchase? Do the cashiers make the customer aware that "There is a limit on how many packages of toilet paper can be purchased?" Then, does the cashier remove the excess packages from the order of what ever the customer was attempting to purchase such as toilet paper? Is this what happens? I surely hope so.

[ficoguy]

Signs, signs, everywhere's a sign
Blockin out the the scenery, breakin' my mind
Do this, don't do that
Can't you read the sign?

[Leadbone1]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.

I love Publix as a store but frankly I think these arrows and signs are ridiculous and don’t achieve anything. If four people are going down the aisle the same direction and two of them stopped to look at things, and the other two people walk by them going the same direction, how is that different than if you passed them going in the opposite direction? So many people have bought into the media generated paranoia and follow ridiculous guidelines regardless of how ineffective they are.

[davem4616]

I wouldn't have an issue with a business requiring masks as that gives other shoppers peace of mind and perhaps even prevents spreading. But is there a study to show that one way lanes mitigate propagation of the virus? Seems like to me that shoppers will now have to do more walking and consequently pass by more shoppers and spending more time in the store.

you are correct on the 'doing more walking' (which isn't a bad thing in itself)....however, you're not going to 'pass by more shoppers' unless you are impatient and 'passing' others as you bull your way down the aisle to get to the next aisle over

[Cher1119]

We were in Wal-Mart and didn't notice the one way signs at first. Hubby went the wrong way and some lady very nicely pointed to the sign on the floor and said.....just letting you know in case some one were to call the traffic police on you. Hahaha After that...we followed the rules

[davem4616]

I have been doing most of the shopping the last few months due to my wife's health. She used to do all the shopping and knows where everything is. I don't, so most of the time I'm looking at the overhead signs that list what items are in that aisle and have a few times forgot to look at the floor for the sign. All those times when I discovered that I was going the wrong way I turned around and went in the correct direction.
Where do some of you people get off getting nasty with someone over something this trivial? I guarantee that if I could look into your life you probably do some things that really annoy others. I'm a polite and courteous person when I'm treated in that manner but don't get all arrogant and superior with me if I absently mindedly go the wrong way. I can guarantee that I will invade you 6' of space and get nose to nose with you and show how haughty and arrogant I can be.


like you I too am now doing most of the food shopping.

It's going to take some people a little more time to 'catch on' that the aisles are now one way....forever our focus has been on our lists, and on the shelves....I only noticed the floor if I had to avoid something

last week as I was coming to the end of an aisle (heading in the correct one-way direction) another couple started to enter the aisle from the wrong direction...I said "Oops am I going the wrong way down this one way street?" They smiled, said oops and quickly course corrected... I made it about me...versus making them wrong...

I never gave too much thought to what went into food shopping when my involvement was basically stopping off to pick up milk and bread on the way home from work...

here's what has made the food shopping easier for me:
#1 I always shop at the exact same store (thus I've come to know what is in which aisle)
#2 I make out a two week menu plan and develop a list from that
#3 I organize my list the way the store is laid out: produce section, deli, meats, aisles and dairy (this also makes it easier for me to be sure I didn't forget something
#4 I try to shop in the 'off hours' (avoids the crowds and okay so some things may be out of stock)

[Pederpod1]

Sams club does instacart too! 😀

[davem4616]

Where did you see a biga$$ sign in the middle of the aisle? What signs are everywhere except on the floor at Publix? As of last week when we were there, the only signs were on the floor, period.


I too have only seen the signs on the floor at the end of the aisles

they're an improvement over the blue tape arrows though

one store had placed the signs every 10 feet on the floor in the aisles...hard to miss those

[davem4616]

They have been doing the one way isles here in NY for awhile and dots at the check out. Yes most people I think are just oblivious to what's going on around them. But there is also the case that someone might not realize and a friendly, " excuse me, youre going the wrong way" Can go a long way And everyone should be wearing masks and gloves when in public areas.

the only thing constant in life is change....it takes some of us a little longer to develop new habits...but we eventually get there


when I was at the end of an aisle and a couple started to enter from the wrong direction I made it about me not them by saying "oops, did I just go down the aisle the wrong way?"....they backed out without feeling like I had made them wrong

[Skunky1]

Quit parking at the front door. Show some respect for your fellow shoppers.You people need some exercise.

[Jacob85]

It seems like people here just do what they want regardless of the rules. I have been surprised as these people have followed rules and laws their whole lives. Maybe they are being rebellious in their second childhood?

[tomhinz]

People are not obeying the signs. What a bunch of?

[jmcica@aol.com]

Went to Publix at Mulberry Grove this morning. They have new signs in the aisles saying one way or do not enter along with arrows on the floor. Also red do not enter signs or green enter signage at the end of each aisle. Also 6 ft social distancing.

No surprise that half the shoppers were ignoring the signs and pushing their way around
and going the wrong way. Are they ignorant, illiterate , or just plain all about me?

Kudos to Publix for trying to meet requirements and keep shoppers safe.

Shame on the wrong way shoppers. I hope they don't drive with the same disregard
to signs.
I don’t think they realize the arrows are there- no need to criticize - just point to arrows. I did the same exact thing first time out. I did not mean to harm anyone at all. EEESH . Tough crowd in TV.

[Car400]

Old habits die hard. When you’ve shopped at a store for years and have always followed a particular route it’s hard to change direction, especially if it’s the complete opposite of what you’re used to. I’m very responsible and always wear a mask and gloves but the other day I accidentally went down the wrong isle and was gently reminded of it by another shopper. I felt terrible...no, we’re not all thoughtless, selfish people!!

[Twiganne]

Me either. We aren’t inconsiderate just not as observant as others. Cut us some slack.

[GoodLife]

Shame on anyone in this thread who is still entering supermarkets. You are endangering all of us.

99.9% of all coronavirus cases happen indoors.

Risk of contagion drops dramatically when you are outside. In a study of three hundred and eighteen outbreaks with three or more cases were identified, involving 1245 confirmed cases in 120 prefectural cities. We divided the venues in which the outbreaks occurred into six categories: homes, transport, food, entertainment, shopping, and miscellaneous. We identified only a single outbreak in an outdoor environment, which involved two cases.

Conclusions: All identified outbreaks of three or more cases occurred in an indoor environment, which confirms that sharing indoor space is a major SARS-CoV-2 inf

https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.04.04.20053058v1.full.pdf

I suggest you all stop worrying about masks and lane arrows and utilize grocery curbside pickup or delivery services. Then go out and play some golf, pickleball, or softball. Much less risky behavior.

[shortstack]

I agree totally that enough is enough. Personally I do not get which direction you go in the store matters. Should we be respectful to those who need the social distancing to make them feel safe, yes.

[ithos]

you are correct on the 'doing more walking' (which isn't a bad thing in itself)....however, you're not going to 'pass by more shoppers' unless you are impatient and 'passing' others as you bull your way down the aisle to get to the next aisle over

You really did not make any sense. But I'll help you out. If you need to enter an aisle for shopping but are at the wrong entrance, you must go to an adjacent aisle which increases the distance you have to walk and thus on average will expose you to more shoppers. Plus you have increased the number of times to pass through intersections which are usually clogged with people. This in turn makes the connecting aisles more congested. Pretty simple isn't it?

So the net effect cumulatively is that it will increase the total distance walked by all the shoppers. Increased distance walked , more time spent in store, increased customer density on average, more exposure to other customers.

If you want a policy to minimize risk, it would be something like this:, Avoid entering congested aisles. Please come back later or find a less congested path too find your product. Not recommending it but it would be less illogical than rigidly following one way rules.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

What happens when these people arrive at the register with multiple items that have restrictions of the amount of purchase? Do the cashiers make the customer aware that "There is a limit on how many packages of toilet paper can be purchased?" Then, does the cashier remove the excess packages from the order of what ever the customer was attempting to purchase such as toilet paper? Is this what happens? I surely hope so.

Yes they are not allowed to buy the other package. It's taken away from them with an apology. But it does hold up the line when you have people doing this with multiple items. It also means the person who came to that aisle a minute later, who saw nothing on the shelf, will miss out on getting that pack of TP

Imagine being that customer. You get there early because you know this is the new reality and you accept it. You get to the paper aisle and there's no TP on the shelves. "Le sigh" you think, and move along to the next thing.

Around 20 minutes later you get in line to check out. You see the person in line behind you with toilet paper. You ask "wow where'd you find that?" And they say "it was on the shelf, I just got it a minute ago, it was the only pack left!"

How did it appear 2 minutes ago when it wasn't there 20 minutes ago? Easy: 25 minutes ago, a customer ignored the signs and took two packs. One was refused at the register and the grocery clerk put it back on the shelf...just 15 minutes after you were there looking for one.

Rejecting the guidelines, rejecting signs, rejecting the fact that everyone ELSE is trying to do the right thing and to hell with them because you are a special snowflake..

that is WHY our toys get taken away from us. Because a few spoil it for everyone else.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Signs, signs, everywhere's a sign
Blockin out the the scenery, breakin' my mind
Do this, don't do that
Can't you read the sign?

Yeah free love, peace, crunchy granola. Until a bunch of people start dying because everyone rejected the signs and jumped over the fence.

That's when you realize - SOME signs need to be obeyed. Signs that exist to help keep everyone safe - are probably signs you should take seriously.

Sort of like fences. Fences make good neighbors - but they also keep the criminals in jail, and not camping out in your back yard.

[Grumpyoldvillager]

If shopping is so dangerous why aren’t we hearing of abnormally high incidence of covid among shop employees?

[photo1902]

If shopping is so dangerous why aren’t we hearing of abnormally high incidence of covid among shop employees?

Excellent point.

[Number 10 GI]

It's not trivial. The fact that you think it is, is part of why we have the rules in the first place. Because there are some people who will deny there's even a problem that needs to be solved, while people are dying from the non-existent problem.

And - if you "get nose to nose" with someone during a pandemic while there are actual rules requiring you to keep your distance, don't be surprised some day, if someone calls the police to complain about being physically harassed and threatened. You can get nose to nose with an officer.

Did I say the problem was trivia? Did I deny there was a problem? No I did not! It is trivial to get all bent out of shape if a person absentmindedly goes the wrong way. I'm not one of them yet, thank God, but there people whose mental faculties aren't what they should be and easily get confused or distracted. You don't have any idea why they do what they do. If you politely mention to them they are not following rules and they come back with a nasty attitude then you know they are cognizant of their actions. If it makes you feel good get nasty back but to come on with an insulting and superior attitude first is boorish behavior.

If you come onto me with insulting and provocative language I might take that as being "physically harassed and threatened." There are laws against instigating a confrontation. Both of us might be nose to nose with a police officer.

[Number 10 GI]

As long as you recognize your error and turn around tht's great, but if you continue you will pass within the 6' and that's your bad. So nose to nose goes both ways, a bit like Russian Roulette, you don't know what's in their nose and it it's coming at you.

Did I not say when I recognized my error and immediately turned around to go in the correct direction? There is no way in a crowded grocery store you can always maintain a 6' distance. I'm not going to stand and wait for someone to spend an inordinate amount of time looking over the ingredients label. I'm going to pass them and be on my way. I spend as little time in the store as can to reduce my chance of contracting a virus. Do you realize how long it would take to get your shopping done if you couldn't pass up someone blocking the way? When you check out and pay are you 6' away from the cashier or the person bagging the groceries? It is less than 4' in most stores so there goes the 6' guideline. As far as Russian Roulette, I'm not worried.

[Marty94]

Before I moved to The Villages, I shopped exclusively for groceries at military commissaries. The isles were marked on the overhead with direction arrows. I really liked this system as you could maneuver past slower shoppers with ease. When I moved to the Villages, I kept looking overhead for the signage out of habit. I found myself in isles waiting for shoppers to pass in the opposite direction so I could get around someone in front of me. It was like trying to pass a car with oncoming traffic. It was a little frustrating at times, but I kept reminding myself to slow down. I may be in the minority, but I like one way isles, especially in those stores with narrow isles. I think it just comes down to what you are used to as we are creatures of habit.

[Number 10 GI]

Shame on anyone in this thread who is still entering supermarkets. You are endangering all of us.

99.9% of all coronavirus cases happen indoors.

Risk of contagion drops dramatically when you are outside. In a study of three hundred and eighteen outbreaks with three or more cases were identified, involving 1245 confirmed cases in 120 prefectural cities. We divided the venues in which the outbreaks occurred into six categories: homes, transport, food, entertainment, shopping, and miscellaneous. We identified only a single outbreak in an outdoor environment, which involved two cases.

Conclusions: All identified outbreaks of three or more cases occurred in an indoor environment, which confirms that sharing indoor space is a major SARS-CoV-2 inf

https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.04.04.20053058v1.full.pdf

I suggest you all stop worrying about masks and lane arrows and utilize grocery curbside pickup or delivery services. Then go out and play some golf, pickleball, or softball. Much less risky behavior.

Grocery stores would not be able to meet the demand using curbside or home delivery.

[cathy p]

I love the one way isles and I also love Fresh Market as you walk up the sign reads to wear a mask. Oh the poor Village people, what shall you do now?
>

[Magajane]

Publix here in Spanish Springs has been that way for quite some time. People are still going the wrong way. I’d be embarrassed to do that.
They now have clear plastic shields at check out. Good for them. Glad to see them taking care of their work staff.

[PugMom]

Anyone ever shop at a Stew Leonard’s?
The isles have always been one way. 2 things happened if u don’t follow the flow. 1) you are chastised by fellow shoppers and in CT it’s VERY direct no sugar added. 2) if u try to leave an isle without going ALL the way through the store, it’s 90% impossible to find the checkouts.
Here at Publix I rather like the one way, if it happens to be busy it’s much easier to get out of an isle with the shoppers that look, touch and feel everything. I don’t mind those shoppers to each his own, I hate shopping so I like to get in and out.
And I won’t go to Stew’s again the place is huge and I don’t want to walk the store if I’m done shopping.
i miss Stew's!!!! esp their wicked bakery! :bigbow:

[GoodLife]

If shopping is so dangerous why aren’t we hearing of abnormally high incidence of covid among shop employees?

It's certainly not as dangerous as working in a hospital with coronavirus patients, but it is definitely has more risk of exposure than playing golf for example. The study I linked previously showed that 99.9% of cases were from indoors.

Grocery store workers (and shoppers) are at risk. These reports just talk about deaths, not cases of those infected

At least 30 grocery store workers have died from the coronavirus. Now, there's an urgent call to designate them as first responders - CBS News (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/grocery-store-workers-first-responders-essential-workers-coronavirus/)

Grocery store worker deaths from coronavirus at least 30 nationwide - Business Insider (https://www.businessinsider.com/grocery-store-worker-deaths-from-coronavirus-at-least-30-nationwide-2020-4)

Can You Get Coronavirus from the Grocery Store? - The Atlantic (https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2020/03/can-you-get-coronavirus-grocery-store/608659/)

[zonerboy]

It seems obvious that many posting here have zero understanding of the concept of risk. Perhaps that is because risk is a variable, not a constant. What I mean is that if two different behaviors are considered risky, the wise person chooses the one with the least risk. Example, which behavior entails the most risk of contracting Covid-19 ??? #1 two persons stand facing each other six feet apart having a conversation for 5 minutes, or #2 two persons who turn heads away from each other, do not speak, but come within three feet of each other while spending 2 seconds passing in a grocery store aisle?

[PugMom]

What happens when these people arrive at the register with multiple items that have restrictions of the amount of purchase? Do the cashiers make the customer aware that "There is a limit on how many packages of toilet paper can be purchased?" Then, does the cashier remove the excess packages from the order of what ever the customer was attempting to purchase such as toilet paper? Is this what happens? I surely hope so.

yes, they take the xtra pkg from the shopper. they did it to a lady in line ahead of me @ wynn-dixie. she was pretty upset, but hey, what can you do. we have to be fair in all of this

[GoodLife]

It seems obvious that many posting here have zero understanding of the concept of risk. Perhaps that is because risk is a variable, not a constant. What I mean is that if two different behaviors are considered risky, the wise person chooses the one with the least risk. Example, which behavior entails the most risk of contracting Covid-19 ??? #1 two persons stand facing each other six feet apart having a conversation for 5 minutes, or #2 two persons who turn heads away from each other, do not speak, but come within three feet of each other while spending 2 seconds passing in a grocery store aisle?

Perhaps you missed the cough/sneeze cloud simulation made by a group of scientists at Helsinki University.

sneeze cloud in a grocery store - Bing video (https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=sneeze+cloud+in+a+grocery+store&docid=608016052841351109&mid=751BC1A24039C70CB580751BC1A24039C70CB580&view=detail&FORM=VIRE)

Perhaps you did not read the study I posted in this thread where it was determined that 99.9% of coronavirus infections happen indoors.

https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.04.04.20053058v1.full.pdf

It's very simple, risk of catching coronavirus is much much higher indoors with other people than it is outside.

[DON10E]

The pages of this thread I read did not seem to give a scientific reason that one way aisles in the supermarket are safer. It’s the same number of people, isn’t it? When I’ve gone shopping I felt like I was on a game show. The item I want is six feet away, but I have to go all the way around to get it. I’m good with that if there’s a good reason why. It seems like it takes me a lot longer to complete my shopping and doesn’t that mean we are all spending more time in an enclosed area? So how is that safer?

I’m not trying to be argumentative, just trying to understand. Anyone?

[photo1902]

Perhaps you missed the cough/sneeze cloud simulation made by a group of scientists at Helsinki University.

sneeze cloud in a grocery store - Bing video (https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=sneeze+cloud+in+a+grocery+store&docid=608016052841351109&mid=751BC1A24039C70CB580751BC1A24039C70CB580&view=detail&FORM=VIRE)

Perhaps you did not read the study I posted in this thread where it was determined that 99.9% of coronavirus infections happen indoors.

https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.04.04.20053058v1.full.pdf

It's very simple, risk of catching coronavirus is much much higher indoors with other people than it is outside.

I’m thinking back to all of the shopping trips I’ve made here over the last seven years. I cannot remember anyone sneezing or coughing near me. Maybe I’ve been lucky

[Doro22]

One way aisles are a great idea, and I’d like to see it stay in place after we all go back to “normal” life. Much better flow and efficiency, imo.

I don’t understand why the stores don’t broadcast this over their loudspeakers every few minutes as a reminder, because the floor markings are very easy to miss.

Thank you... I goofed also, & didn’t realize it at first. Then someone reminded me very nicely & I apologized & thereafter did the right thing.

[GoodLife]

Grocery stores would not be able to meet the demand using curbside or home delivery.

Sure they could. If shoppers demand more curbside pickup, Walmart can just scale up that department. Instacart can hire more drivers. I haven't had any problems so far.

Hired an Uber driver to bring me some adult beverages from the liquor store last week.

I avoid indoor spaces like the plague. :coolsmiley:

[ithos]

The pages of this thread I read did not seem to give a scientific reason that one way aisles in the supermarket are safer. It’s the same number of people, isn’t it? When I’ve gone shopping I felt like I was on a game show. The item I want is six feet away, but I have to go all the way around to get it. I’m good with that if there’s a good reason why. It seems like it takes me a lot longer to complete my shopping and doesn’t that mean we are all spending more time in an enclosed area? So how is that safer?

I’m not trying to be argumentative, just trying to understand. Anyone?

I have asked for a rational explanation but have not read any responses that have any basis in logic . Just some inane comments like the one that compared it to parking lot lanes. You are correct. The average time a shopper spends in the store go up. It also forces more people to the front of the store where it is already congested due to the social distancing in the check out lines.

But it does give some people a sense of smug self righteousness that they are doing what they are told. I guess that is worth something.

[VILLAGERBB]

Happinow - you are so right! When did shoppers become the shopping police?
I now order online from Walmart and it comes to my door. I am sick of the nonsense that goes on in the stores.


My husband went shopping yesterday at Publix and In an effort to get in and out as quickly as possible, he accidentally went the wrong direction down an isle. He said he was concentrating on finding the items I had on our shopping list and was looking at the signs above for which isle to find the items. He got some pretty rude comments. I think people need to understand that Grocery shopping is way different than it used to be. This is so out of the ordinary for all of us. It takes some getting used to. Maybe a little grace would be nice in these stressful times. Thank you.....

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

If shopping is so dangerous why aren’t we hearing of abnormally high incidence of covid among shop employees?

Because shop employees are being required to take very aggressive measures to ensure they are healthy. In addition, anyone who has ANY symptoms of illness - coughing, sneezing, general malaise - are instructed to go home and stay there for 14 days. Our risk of illness is thereby reduced. We wear gloves, masks, WE have access to hand sanitizer which we make generous use of throughout our shifts, we take short breaks where we can go to a sink and wash our hands, and drink water before returning to our tasks. In other words - we are taken care of a little better than most people take care of themselves.

[photo1902]

Because shop employees are being required to take very aggressive measures to ensure they are healthy. In addition, anyone who has ANY symptoms of illness - coughing, sneezing, general malaise - are instructed to go home and stay there for 14 days. Our risk of illness is thereby reduced. We wear gloves, masks, WE have access to hand sanitizer which we make generous use of throughout our shifts, we take short breaks where we can go to a sink and wash our hands, and drink water before returning to our tasks. In other words - we are taken care of a little better than most people take care of themselves.

So drinking water is the key?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The pages of this thread I read did not seem to give a scientific reason that one way aisles in the supermarket are safer. It’s the same number of people, isn’t it? When I’ve gone shopping I felt like I was on a game show. The item I want is six feet away, but I have to go all the way around to get it. I’m good with that if there’s a good reason why. It seems like it takes me a lot longer to complete my shopping and doesn’t that mean we are all spending more time in an enclosed area? So how is that safer?

I’m not trying to be argumentative, just trying to understand. Anyone?

It's math and geometry.

Let's use an aisle. A nice big aisle. We have a shopper with a shopping cart in front of her, because she's pushing it. She stops to check out something on the shelf to her right.

Now we have someone coming down from the opposite end, and he stops adjacent to the woman, with his cart in front of him, while he looks on a shelf to HIS right.

Now, we have a guy without a shopping cart coming up behind the woman, and he wants to pass by. But we also have a woman and her two kids beside her, with a shopping cart, coming from the other direction, trying to pass the guy.

In order for the guy without the cart to pass the woman at the same time the lady with the two kids is trying to pass the guy with the cart, they all have to go down the middle of the aisle, facing each other and passing each other in VERY close proximity. As in - bumping shoulders.

The one-way scenario REDUCES this. It doesn't eliminate it, but it does reduce it.

You won't have people coming within inches of each other, while facing each other, in order to pass the people in front of them.

You'll still have people trying to pass, but it'll be a single lane of "people trying to pass" right down the middle, instead of people coming from both directions trying to create two "passing" lanes in the middle.

One passing lane vs. two passing lanes, all taking up the same amount of real estate.

Reduced risk. That's what it's about.

[photo1902]

It's math and geometry.

Let's use an aisle. A nice big aisle. We have a shopper with a shopping cart in front of her, because she's pushing it. She stops to check out something on the shelf to her right.

Now we have someone coming down from the opposite end, and he stops adjacent to the woman, with his cart in front of him, while he looks on a shelf to HIS right.

Now, we have a guy without a shopping cart coming up behind the woman, and he wants to pass by. But we also have a woman and her two kids beside her, with a shopping cart, coming from the other direction, trying to pass the guy.

In order for the guy without the cart to pass the woman at the same time the lady with the two kids is trying to pass the guy with the cart, they all have to go down the middle of the aisle, facing each other and passing each other in VERY close proximity. As in - bumping shoulders.

The one-way scenario REDUCES this. It doesn't eliminate it, but it does reduce it.

You won't have people coming within inches of each other, while facing each other, in order to pass the people in front of them.

You'll still have people trying to pass, but it'll be a single lane of "people trying to pass" right down the middle, instead of people coming from both directions trying to create two "passing" lanes in the middle.

One passing lane vs. two passing lanes, all taking up the same amount of real estate.

Reduced risk. That's what it's about.

Good grief. Nonsense. This is lunacy.

[graciegirl]

It's math and geometry.

Let's use an aisle. A nice big aisle. We have a shopper with a shopping cart in front of her, because she's pushing it. She stops to check out something on the shelf to her right.

Now we have someone coming down from the opposite end, and he stops adjacent to the woman, with his cart in front of him, while he looks on a shelf to HIS right.

Now, we have a guy without a shopping cart coming up behind the woman, and he wants to pass by. But we also have a woman and her two kids beside her, with a shopping cart, coming from the other direction, trying to pass the guy.

In order for the guy without the cart to pass the woman at the same time the lady with the two kids is trying to pass the guy with the cart, they all have to go down the middle of the aisle, facing each other and passing each other in VERY close proximity. As in - bumping shoulders.

The one-way scenario REDUCES this. It doesn't eliminate it, but it does reduce it.

You won't have people coming within inches of each other, while facing each other, in order to pass the people in front of them.

You'll still have people trying to pass, but it'll be a single lane of "people trying to pass" right down the middle, instead of people coming from both directions trying to create two "passing" lanes in the middle.

One passing lane vs. two passing lanes, all taking up the same amount of real estate.

Reduced risk. That's what it's about.

Makes sense to me. I hope you continue to stay safe and I appreciate what you are doing.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Good grief. Nonsense. This is lunacy.

I'm sensing that you might be a little dehydrated. Maybe have a glass of water.

[ithos]

It's math and geometry.

Let's use an aisle. A nice big aisle. We have a shopper with a shopping cart in front of her, because she's pushing it. She stops to check out something on the shelf to her right.

Now we have someone coming down from the opposite end, and he stops adjacent to the woman, with his cart in front of him, while he looks on a shelf to HIS right.

Now, we have a guy without a shopping cart coming up behind the woman, and he wants to pass by. But we also have a woman and her two kids beside her, with a shopping cart, coming from the other direction, trying to pass the guy.

In order for the guy without the cart to pass the woman at the same time the lady with the two kids is trying to pass the guy with the cart, they all have to go down the middle of the aisle, facing each other and passing each other in VERY close proximity. As in - bumping shoulders.

The one-way scenario REDUCES this. It doesn't eliminate it, but it does reduce it.

You won't have people coming within inches of each other, while facing each other, in order to pass the people in front of them.

You'll still have people trying to pass, but it'll be a single lane of "people trying to pass" right down the middle, instead of people coming from both directions trying to create two "passing" lanes in the middle.

One passing lane vs. two passing lanes, all taking up the same amount of real estate.

Reduced risk. That's what it's about.

How about this scenario. Without the new rule, the only people in that aisle will be people shopping for items located in it. With the new rule, you have more traffic because people are forced into the aisle where they will do no shopping due to one way lanes.

We could play this scenario game all day long. Not sure where the math and geometry come into play. Was hoping to see some Pythagorean or algebra calculations.

[NavyVet]

Yes they are not allowed to buy the other package. It's taken away from them with an apology. But it does hold up the line when you have people doing this with multiple items. It also means the person who came to that aisle a minute later, who saw nothing on the shelf, will miss out on getting that pack of TP

Imagine being that customer. You get there early because you know this is the new reality and you accept it. You get to the paper aisle and there's no TP on the shelves. "Le sigh" you think, and move along to the next thing.

Around 20 minutes later you get in line to check out. You see the person in line behind you with toilet paper. You ask "wow where'd you find that?" And they say "it was on the shelf, I just got it a minute ago, it was the only pack left!"

How did it appear 2 minutes ago when it wasn't there 20 minutes ago? Easy: 25 minutes ago, a customer ignored the signs and took two packs. One was refused at the register and the grocery clerk put it back on the shelf...just 15 minutes after you were there looking for one.

Rejecting the guidelines, rejecting signs, rejecting the fact that everyone ELSE is trying to do the right thing and to hell with them because you are a special snowflake..

that is WHY our toys get taken away from us. Because a few spoil it for everyone else.

So true. *Le sigh* I love that! LOL :clap2:

[DON10E]

It's math and geometry.

Let's use an aisle. A nice big aisle. We have a shopper with a shopping cart in front of her, because she's pushing it. She stops to check out something on the shelf to her right.

Now we have someone coming down from the opposite end, and he stops adjacent to the woman, with his cart in front of him, while he looks on a shelf to HIS right.

Now, we have a guy without a shopping cart coming up behind the woman, and he wants to pass by. But we also have a woman and her two kids beside her, with a shopping cart, coming from the other direction, trying to pass the guy.

In order for the guy without the cart to pass the woman at the same time the lady with the two kids is trying to pass the guy with the cart, they all have to go down the middle of the aisle, facing each other and passing each other in VERY close proximity. As in - bumping shoulders.

The one-way scenario REDUCES this. It doesn't eliminate it, but it does reduce it.

You won't have people coming within inches of each other, while facing each other, in order to pass the people in front of them.

You'll still have people trying to pass, but it'll be a single lane of "people trying to pass" right down the middle, instead of people coming from both directions trying to create two "passing" lanes in the middle.

One passing lane vs. two passing lanes, all taking up the same amount of real estate.

Reduced risk. That's what it's about.

Thank you, OBB for a reasonable explanation. I can see how this could potentially reduce risk. However, I see some flaws in the one-way traffic policy.

First, the scenario you laid out seems to be rather specific and therefore relatively rare. But that doesn't mean it doesn't happen, and it might reduce the risk compared to having two way traffic. A little.

However, and this always seems to be the bigger issue, the risk is not all or nothing. We have to consider the cost of the action. What's the cost of one way traffic? I think unquestionably it increases the time required to shop...get in and get out. The longer we are trapped indoors with many people (some of whom are not wearing masks which are designed to protect the population, not the wearer) the higher the risk of infection.

In the overall scheme of things, I would think reducing time exposed would be towards the top of the list of risk mitigation techniques available. I think I would want to accept the two-way traffic risk (especially since I can mitigate that by waiting longer for the person to pass and not bumping shoulders) in exchange for significantly reducing the exposure time risk.

Your explanation of the benefit of the policy is good. I am not convinced that the policy is wise overall. Especially since, in the real world, people are confused and violate the policy frequently. So we could end up with the aisle risk (bumping shoulders) AND the longer exposure risk.

There's always a battle between theoretical and actual when it comes to predicting human behavior.

Thoughts?

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Its amazing how a small requested change can set some people off, like requesting behavioral changes from chaotic/randomness to a directional pattern is equivalent to a personal sacrifice of having your driver's license taken away! Bunch of old dogs with keyboards. I suppose the same group all complained loudly when roads went from dirt to pavement with a line down the middle.

Up north in MA, there are walmarts and supermarkets shut down for employees testing positive. One Walmart had 81 positives on the staff of 414. That Walmart has been shut down for several days, and no public plans for reopening as of Sunday. So now the regular shoppers don't even have a choice to shop there.

If you read reports around the country of unusual groups getting the virus, the one common trait is close association indoors. Bridge Was Their Passion. Then People Started to Die. - The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/29/us/coronavirus-bridge-colorado-springs.html) is an interesting article. Meat plants being shut down for the same reason, close association indoors. . .

Really people, you are so fragile that you can't adapt for a short period of time?

sportsguy

[ALadysMom]

Yes they are not allowed to buy the other package. It's taken away from them with an apology. But it does hold up the line when you have people doing this with multiple items. It also means the person who came to that aisle a minute later, who saw nothing on the shelf, will miss out on getting that pack of TP

Imagine being that customer. You get there early because you know this is the new reality and you accept it. You get to the paper aisle and there's no TP on the shelves. "Le sigh" you think, and move along to the next thing.

Around 20 minutes later you get in line to check out. You see the person in line behind you with toilet paper. You ask "wow where'd you find that?" And they say "it was on the shelf, I just got it a minute ago, it was the only pack left!"

How did it appear 2 minutes ago when it wasn't there 20 minutes ago? Easy: 25 minutes ago, a customer ignored the signs and took two packs. One was refused at the register and the grocery clerk put it back on the shelf...just 15 minutes after you were there looking for one.

Rejecting the guidelines, rejecting signs, rejecting the fact that everyone ELSE is trying to do the right thing and to hell with them because you are a special snowflake..

that is WHY our toys get taken away from us. Because a few spoil it for everyone else.

You make a lot of dubious conclusions. “Doing the right thing” is not equivalent to following bogus rules which gave zero impact on actual infection rates. There is nothing right about tyranny.
Why are so many rules being universally enacted by entire sectors of our economy without ANY proof of their efficacy? How do one-way lanes in grocery stores actually decrease disease transmissions? We all may wish these rules would “keep us safe” but they are simply propaganda designed to:

1)make you FEEL as if you are doing something good
And
2)limit liability exposure for the stores because they can say they took all the same safety precautions as was the industry standard.

Neither improves your SAFETY.

The WHO and the CDC said non-N95 masks are not effective. What changed?

Since no one has previous immunity and there is no vaccine, thinking you won’t get infected is not realistic.

Keeping everyone under lockdown to “flatten the curve“ also SLOWED herd immunity. We went under house arrest so floods of sick folks wouldn’t overwhelm our healthcare system but that didn’t change the fact that everyone will still be exposed & probably will get infected. We now know that most will not get very sick but some will get very ill and a few will die. It’s dicey to assume which group you or I will be in but staying “safe” by hiding from this virus for a year or two in hopes there will be a vaccine isn’t realistic.

Most of these rules are busy-work, feel-good measures and liability limitations—nothing more.

[ALadysMom]

The best way to limit possible transmissions is to limit the number of shopping trips you make. Stay home. But can you really do that indefinitely?

Grocers could make their store more uniform in design layout to make shopping faster but they won’t because more time means more money.

I have shopped once since Feb 22nd. I bulk shop with a meal plan and a detailed list. Sometimes I miss an item & have to double back. Being disabled means walking extra steps causes me pain and inflammation so following one-way arrows is detrimental to my health & well-being but I don’t want a confrontation with the self-appointed one-way enforcement so I suffer great pain to comply.

[photo1902]

Simple solution. Shop Winn Dixie, Walmart and Aldi’s.

[coffeebean]

Yes they are not allowed to buy the other package. It's taken away from them with an apology. But it does hold up the line when you have people doing this with multiple items. It also means the person who came to that aisle a minute later, who saw nothing on the shelf, will miss out on getting that pack of TP

Imagine being that customer. You get there early because you know this is the new reality and you accept it. You get to the paper aisle and there's no TP on the shelves. "Le sigh" you think, and move along to the next thing.

Around 20 minutes later you get in line to check out. You see the person in line behind you with toilet paper. You ask "wow where'd you find that?" And they say "it was on the shelf, I just got it a minute ago, it was the only pack left!"

How did it appear 2 minutes ago when it wasn't there 20 minutes ago? Easy: 25 minutes ago, a customer ignored the signs and took two packs. One was refused at the register and the grocery clerk put it back on the shelf...just 15 minutes after you were there looking for one.

Rejecting the guidelines, rejecting signs, rejecting the fact that everyone ELSE is trying to do the right thing and to hell with them because you are a special snowflake..

that is WHY our toys get taken away from us. Because a few spoil it for everyone else.

My heartfelt thanks to you for putting up with the public. I'm not one of those folks who do not read and comprehend signs but I'm grateful for all you do for us.

[ALadysMom]

Thank you, OBB for a reasonable explanation. I can see how this could potentially reduce risk. However, I see some flaws in the one-way traffic policy.

First, the scenario you laid out seems to be rather specific and therefore relatively rare. But that doesn't mean it doesn't happen, and it might reduce the risk compared to having two way traffic. A little.

However, and this always seems to be the bigger issue, the risk is not all or nothing. We have to consider the cost of the action. What's the cost of one way traffic? I think unquestionably it increases the time required to shop...get in and get out. The longer we are trapped indoors with many people (some of whom are not wearing masks which are designed to protect the population, not the wearer) the higher the risk of infection.

In the overall scheme of things, I would think reducing time exposed would be towards the top of the list of risk mitigation techniques available. I think I would want to accept the two-way traffic risk (especially since I can mitigate that by waiting longer for the person to pass and not bumping shoulders) in exchange for significantly reducing the exposure time risk.

Your explanation of the benefit of the policy is good. I am not convinced that the policy is wise overall. Especially since, in the real world, people are confused and violate the policy frequently. So we could end up with the aisle risk (bumping shoulders) AND the longer exposure risk.

There's always a battle between theoretical and actual when it comes to predicting human behavior.

Thoughts?
Based on the posts here, I am more concerned about customers getting into arguments or physical altercations BECAUSE of the one-way rule. Something meant to improve safety can go terribly wrong. Some folks seem to have been pushed to the limits of their tolerance while others simply want to assert control over others perhaps because they feel they’ve lost all control. Not good. More bogus rules will only make things worse. Again, it’s the group that says they don’t like intolerance who are being most intolerant and tyrannical.

[coffeebean]

So drinking water is the key?

Very good point. I did hear a physician on TV say that staying hydrated is very important to mitigate this virus. Keeping the nasal passages moist will help keep the virus from taking hold in the nose. That is not word for word but the gist of what the physician said.

[coffeebean]

I'm sensing that you might be a little dehydrated. Maybe have a glass of water.

Good one, OBB.

[ithos]

The best way to limit possible transmissions is to limit the number of shopping trips you make. Stay home. But can you really do that indefinitely?

Grocers could make their store more uniform in design layout to make shopping faster but they won’t because more time means more money.

I have shopped once since Feb 22nd. I bulk shop with a meal plan and a detailed list. Sometimes I miss an item & have to double back. Being disabled means walking extra steps causes me pain and inflammation so following one-way arrows is detrimental to my health & well-being but I don’t want a confrontation with the self-appointed one-way enforcement so I suffer great pain to comply.

Like you I follow the policy even though it is patently clear that it increases the amount of time you have to spend in the store. As you said the real objective is to increase store profits as you pass by many more products with the new regime. I didn't consider that it was more than just an inconvenience for some people. In The Villages I am sure there are others that also must suffer unnecessarily. Thank you for enlightening me and I hope others as well.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The best way to limit possible transmissions is to limit the number of shopping trips you make. Stay home. But can you really do that indefinitely?

Grocers could make their store more uniform in design layout to make shopping faster but they won’t because more time means more money.

I have shopped once since Feb 22nd. I bulk shop with a meal plan and a detailed list. Sometimes I miss an item & have to double back. Being disabled means walking extra steps causes me pain and inflammation so following one-way arrows is detrimental to my health & well-being but I don’t want a confrontation with the self-appointed one-way enforcement so I suffer great pain to comply.

Being disabled means you are invited to use one of the battery-powered seated carts, where you can sit down and roll through the aisles without discomfort - and still go the right way.

It's one way because that's how they want it. They ASK you to wear masks because that's what they want you to do. They have accommodations so that anyone who shops there is able to follow these guidelines. Even the blind - they can stop off at the service desk and someone will escort them, or shop on their behalf with a list.

The only reason for you to NOT comply with the rules is "I don't wanna." Seems pretty childish to me.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Based on the posts here, I am more concerned about customers getting into arguments or physical altercations BECAUSE of the one-way rule. Something meant to improve safety can go terribly wrong. Some folks seem to have been pushed to the limits of their tolerance while others simply want to assert control over others perhaps because they feel they’ve lost all control. Not good. More bogus rules will only make things worse. Again, it’s the group that says they don’t like intolerance who are being most intolerant and tyrannical.

It doesn't happen. Sometimes there are words, but they don't last long. I've had them in Walmart with people who refuse to comply with the wishes of the store they have been PERMITTED to be in. Going to a supermarket is not a right. The supermarket owns their store. It is THEIR right, not yours, to permit you access or to deny it. If you don't follow THEIR rules, THEY have the right to kick you out. The only right you have is to not go in the first place.

Just like if I come to your house, YOU have the right to kick ME out, and I do NOT have the right to disobey your rules.

That's how private property works. No tyranny here. It's called living in a civilized society. If you don't like it, go to a country where property owners have no rights to maintain order on their own property.

[positiveinlife]

All I can say is some people are sheep always do what they are told can't think on their own. I am sure you will blindly accept a vaccine
because you are told to do so. I'am sure you think the Government will always do what's best for you too!

[Byte1]

It's not trivial. The fact that you think it is, is part of why we have the rules in the first place. Because there are some people who will deny there's even a problem that needs to be solved, while people are dying from the non-existent problem.

And - if you "get nose to nose" with someone during a pandemic while there are actual rules requiring you to keep your distance, don't be surprised some day, if someone calls the police to complain about being physically harassed and threatened. You can get nose to nose with an officer.

It really IS "trivial." Someone going the wrong way in the store is not going to disrupt anyone's day unless they NEED something to complain about. It's TRIVIAL. Starting a thread to make folks aware of the shopping changes is one thing, but to incessantly complain over and over again that folks did not see the change is beating a dead horse and shows how petty and insignificant some folks' lives are. If you can't kindly remind someone that they are making a mistake and then allow their mistake to irritate you for the rest of the day, or week then maybe the problem is you.
Going the wrong way in a store really is TRIVIAL. If you live in fear, then stay safe at home.

[golfing eagles]

Old guy fight in aisle 7

fighting old men - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfcZnShOA3s)

Not really, I don't fight, I talk
If not effective, I talk loudly and firmly
If that doesn't work, I yell
If someone is stupid enough to attack me physically, I won't hurt them, just put them in a restraining hold to give them a "time out" to think about their stupid actions. No point in using up an ICU bed on an aisle moron.

[finchbird57]

Many are ignorant and others do not care. It is get what I need and get out of here.

[jebartle]

The signs are ridiculous. They'll never work. We, as a people, do not like being told what to do with our lives, and how to live our life. We have been good little sheep for 2 months. Time to live our lives. Period.

Where is the popcorn?

[golfing eagles]

It really IS "trivial." Someone going the wrong way in the store is not going to disrupt anyone's day unless they NEED something to complain about. It's TRIVIAL. Starting a thread to make folks aware of the shopping changes is one thing, but to incessantly complain over and over again that folks did not see the change is beating a dead horse and shows how petty and insignificant some folks' lives are. If you can't kindly remind someone that they are making a mistake and then allow their mistake to irritate you for the rest of the day, or week then maybe the problem is you.
Going the wrong way in a store really is TRIVIAL. If you live in fear, then stay safe at home.

I agree

That being said, I follow the arrows and the rules because that is what THE MANAGEMENT has requested. I couldn't care less what THE SELF APPOINTED AISLE POLICE have to say.

[jebartle]

“Part of life” is now the real possibility of contracting Covid-19 while out and about and becoming seriously ill and dying. If you don’t want to heed the warnings and follow the rules that’s your prerogative. Good luck. You’ll need it.

I'm betting that spell-check got you, I get it all the time.

[jebartle]

I don't believe one way aisles is going to keep you or me from getting this so called virus. It's just another control method for big brother to see how far they can control us.

Hmmmm....Michigan has a few protestor with similar attitude with swast., neuses, confederate flags and guns, going against the grain. This social distancing is really trying to save your grandmother from covid19. Chill.

[zonerboy]

The fact of the matter is that every single action involves some degree of risk. It is up to us to use our brains and actually think about which course of action involves the least amount of risk. And to decide whether the potential benefit of an action is worth the involved risk.
Some people like lots of rules, because then they feel safe and secure and do not have to make decisions. They do not care whether or not the rules actually have any effect on risk.
Just my thoughts.

[jebartle]

They do drive that way and they raised their children to be arrogant citizens as well. Bet their grandchildren are morons too. There should be a loudspeaker that yells, man in yellow shirt and green poke-a-pants is going the wrong way in isle 4. Please obey the rules or leave the store. I would have no problem with standing at the front door and give instructions to each person coming in. We need big bouncers at the front doors to keep people in line. Thank you store managers for trying to deal with idiots who are not smarter than a 5th grader.

Lol.

[Villageswimmer]

Makes sense to me. I hope you continue to stay safe and I appreciate what you are doing.


Makes sense to me as well. Thank you for the explanations. You’re doing us all a service—even some curmudgeons who won’t admit it.