Workers at 2 local Lowe’s stores test positive for COVID-19

MOORESVILLE, N.C. — Two people at different Charlotte Lowe’s stores tested positive for COVID-19, a spokeswoman said.

One case was at the Northlake store at 10275 Perimeter Parkway. That employee last worked on March 24.

The other case was at the Ballantyne store at 5310 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. The last time the employee worked there was on March 23.

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In both cases, the associates have been quarantined and are receiving care. Lowe’s officials are supporting them as they recover, the spokeswoman said.

Lowe’s statement:

“The well-being of our associates and customers is Lowe’s priority. The stores remain open, and we continue to take extra steps to clean the store beyond our daily cleaning protocols. In an abundance of caution, associates who had worked closely with either individual over a period of time have been put on a paid leave.

“Following CDC guidelines, we continue to make updates to our operations with associate and customer safety top of mind. All Lowe’s stores have signage encouraging social distancing measures as well as overhead announcements every 15 minutes to remind customers. We also have clear signs and floor markers to reinforce CDC social distancing guidelines. Plexiglass shields have been installed at all cash registers in Charlotte-area stores. Customers also have the option to checkout via mobile point of sale.

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“Some additional operational measures include: offering curbside loading, increasing time spent cleaning and sanitizing stores, including adding additional third-party cleaning, and rescheduling non-essential services and installations.

“We cannot thank our associates enough for their hard work and dedication supporting our communities during this time when we are needed most. Lowe’s has committed more than $100 million to support our associates and our communities during this unprecedented time.

“This commitment includes offering 14-days of emergency paid leave for all associates who need it, as well as an additional two weeks paid leave for associates who may be at greater risk of contracting the virus. Today, all hourly associates received a bonus ($300 full time, $150 part time) to recognize their efforts and help with unplanned expenses. Additionally, all Lowe’s associates – whether they are enrolled in a Lowe’s medical plan or not – now have access to our telemedicine benefit to help families get medical advice from home without having to visit a doctor’s office."

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