Kroger, Walmart reverse their mask policies as Delta variant spreads

Kroger and Walmart — two of the nation's biggest retailing chains — are changing their mask policies as the nation contends with less-vaccinated regions getting hit by high infection rates due to the Delta variant.

Kroger is now "strongly" encouraging all individuals, including those who are vaccinated, to wear a mask when in its stores and facilities, the Cincinnati, Ohio-based supermarket operator said Friday, citing updated recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Previously, Kroger had required unvaccinated employees wear masks and requested that unvaccinated shoppers do the same.  "We will continue to abide by all state and local mandates and encourage all Americans to get vaccinated, including our associates," the company said in an emailed statement. Kroger operates nearly 2,800 stores in 35 states.