Common Market Updates (July 2, 2022)

Current Store Hours

General Shopping Hours: 8 am – 9 pm Daily

Call for Café Hours:
Rt. 85 Café: 240-680-9048
7th St. Café: 240-608-4850

COVID-19 Update March 22, 2022:

Both the City and County of Frederick continue to see positive metrics in the rate of COVID-19 cases; and therefore, the CDC downgraded Frederick County to “low community transmission” status.

The Common Market Leadership Team has looked to these trends and followed these guidelines since the beginning of the pandemic.  Therefore, we are announcing the following operational changes for staff and customers beginning Tuesday, March 22, 2022.

• Masks or face coverings are no longer required to be worn by employees unless they are in COVID-19 isolation or quarantine protocol.
• Employees in isolation or quarantine protocol will still be required to wear a mask around others and to physically distance from others when possible.
• Members of the public are no longer required to wear masks in Common Market stores.
• Anyone can continue to wear a mask if that is their preference.

Steps for a Healthy Frederick

At The Common Market, we take the health and safety of our community seriously and strive to do more than just provide natural, affordable, and healthy food. We appreciate your loyalty and patronage during this time of uncertainty. As we all navigate through the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, we will continue to focus, as we always have, on our community’s health and wellness.

Serving our community is our top priority, and we will continue to maintain regular operations as long as it is considered safe. Precautionary steps have begun in our store  to prevent the spread of illness and ease the minds of our community. Here are some of the actions the Common Market has taken:

• Increased cleaning and sanitation of the store, above CDC guidelines
• Gloves available in store
• Disinfectant wipes provided for cleaning cart and basket handles
• Cashiers wipe down all station surfaces between customers when possible
• Hand sanitizer are available at each register
• Extra trash cans installed next to inner exit door for glove collection
• Salad Bar is now open and Hot Bar will open in the fall, following Frederick Health Department guidelines (updated July 19, 2021)
• Self-serve coffee station open and cleaned regularly
• Reusable silverware and mugs removed from café area
• Café seating in compliance with social distancing
• Tester products have been removed from the Wellness Department
• Community Room events and meetings will begin to re-open (Updated July 2, 2021)
• Handing out Bring-a-Bag tokens have been suspended, but we continue to make donations to organizations
• Employees are encouraged to wash hands more frequently
• Any employee who feels under the weather is encouraged to stay home, and we are offering extra PTO
• Updated customer restrooms to automatic flushing valves as well as touch-less door handles
• Limiting number of customers inside the store per state and county guidelines (updated Nov 18, 2020)
• As an extra layer of safety for you and our front end staff, we have installed plexiglass barriers at our registers and front service desk (removed from service desk July 2, 2021)
• To further encourage social distancing, we are marking most aisles to be one-way only at the Rt. 85 location (removed July 2, 2021).  The 7th Street location has wider aisles allowing customers to pass by at a distance.
• As of April 10, 2020, we now offer curbside pickup and delivery options!
• Limiting number of customers waiting to enter the store to 20. (effective April 16, 2020 and removed July 2, 2021)
• Face coverings, that fully cover the nose and mouth, continue to be highly encouraged, but no longer mandated for those fully vaccinated, while shopping in the store, for the health and safety of team members and customers.  (effective July 2, 2021)
• As of June 1st, we will reopen Special Orders with some temporary terms and conditions.  Please visit the special orders page to learn more…
• As of June 8th, reusable bags will be permitted in the store. We ask customers to keep bags in their cart during the checkout process (do not place on conveyor belt) and cashiers who feel comfortable will pack purchases in  reusable bags, otherwise customers are asked to pack their reusable bags themselves.  Our staff will be happy to bag on your behalf in our recycled paper or plastic bags, should you prefer. (Updated July 19, 2021)
• As of June 12th, customers are able to utilize scoop and gravity bins using provided bags OR your own reusable container. We ask customers to ensure any reusable containers brought into the Common Market are sanitized and clean.  Bulk water and bulk wellness will resume to normal operation as well. Bulk spices now available in self-serve and pre-packaged (updated Nov. 13, 2020).
• As of June 15, 2020, product hold and rain checks return!  See front service desk associate with any questions.
• As of June 16, 2020, we are back to our normal return policy! If you are not satisfied with any product, your money will be refunded when returned within 30 days from the date of purchase accompanied by your receipt. As usual, no returns on special order items we don’t usually stock, perishable or fresh items that are past their expiration date, significantly used wellness merchandise, and magazines.  For any questions, stop by the service desk or call 301-663-3416

Here to provide the healthy, natural, and sustainable products you love.
During this pandemic, we’re working hard to keep the Common Market shelves stocked with the products you love. Though certain items cannot be guaranteed to be in stock, we still have many of the staples you and your loved ones need during this time.

Our friendly staff are here with a smile on their face to help you in this time of need. We’re here to help keep the community healthy and are proud that you continually choose us for your grocery and household needs.  We will continue to take all the necessary steps to provide the community with the things they need and our staff with a safe place to work. As the situation evolves, and based upon availability, we will keep you updated on any changes or new developments. Again, we thank you for your loyalty and for choosing the Common Market.

COVID-19 Update December 31, 2021:

Frederick County Board of Health approved an Indoor Mask Mandate effective at 5:00 pm Friday, January 31, 2021.  Under the new directive everyone five years and older will be required to wear a face covering in public indoor spaces where they are unable to stay at least six feet away from people who are not members of their household. Exceptions include those experiencing medical conditions or disabilities that make it unsafe to wear a mask, people eating and drinking.

Common Market is asking all customers comply with the new Indoor Mask Mandate and to wear a face covering fully over their nose and mouth while shopping in our stores.  Common Market staff are already required to wear such a face covering while working on site.

COVID-19 Update December 27, 2021:

It has been a long time since we’ve had to report a positive Covid result among our staff, but we choose to remain transparent.  The employee, from the 7th Street store, has not been on property since 12/23 and was not showing symptoms.  The employee continues to quarantine, and to the best of our knowledge, was not exposed on property.  Common Market continues to sanitize both stores on a regular basis, encourages customers to wear masks, requires staff to wear masks, and maintains a High Risk Shopper hour where all staff and customers must wear a mask on the floor from 8 – 9 AM on Wednesdays and Sundays.

COVID-19 Update July 2, 2021:

Starting on Friday July 2, the Common Market will follow Governor Hogan’s directive to lift the mask mandate per CDC and Health Department recommendations, that those who have not been vaccinated continue to wear masks, especially indoors and around others.  We strongly encourage staff and customers to take personal responsibility and mask according to their own personal situation as outlined above.

In addition, we will maintain the High Risk Shopper hour, where all staff and customers must wear a mask on the floor from 8 – 9 AM on Wednesdays and Sundays.  Curbside pick-up hours will also remain extended, from 11 AM – 6 PM daily.

The Common Market Co-op continues our commitment to the health and safety of our employees and customers.  We will continue to clean and sanitize the stores on a regular basis.  Thank you for your continued support. As we move forward, let’s continue to wear a mask where appropriate, wash our hands regularly, respect one another’s space.  As a Co-op we know we are “Stronger Together!”

COVID-19 Update May 15, 2021:

As mask wearing mandates are lifted for our state and country, in the co-operative spirit, for the health and safety of our team members and customers, Common Market is highly encouraging the continued wearing of masks and the practice of social distancing while shopping in our store.

We sincerely thank our loyal team members and customers for your support, compassion, and understanding as we move through this next transition.

Stay safe and continue to wash your hands!

Román Diaz, General Manager, and The Common Market Leadership Team

COVID-19 Update May 6, 2021:

Yesterday, a positive case of COVID-19 was reported in the Front End team at the 7th Street store. The individual last worked  on Tuesday, May 4 at the 7th Street store from 12:00pm-8:30pm.  Fellow employees in close contact have been tested and will remain in quarantine until their results are back.   The Front End was thoroughly cleaned following the report of this illness – the first to be reported among staff since December 2020.

Common Market is continuing to follow all guidelines that have been set forth by the Health Department and CDC.  A majority of Common Market staff have been vaccinated or are in the process of being vaccinated against the virus.

Disinfecting of each store continues to happen 3 days a week and will continue for the foreseeable future. As we take the necessary steps forward, as a company, to continue adhere to guidelines and set new standards for safety, we ask that all customers and staff continue to practice social distancing, wear your mask, and frequently wash your hands both in and out of Common Market stores.  According to the Maryland Health Department, the best way to slow the spread of COVID-19 is through social distancing, meaning avoiding close contact with others.

We appreciate your understanding and support.

Stay safe,

Román Diaz, General Manager, and The Common Market Leadership Team

 

COVID-19 Update December 1, 2020:

Last evening a positive case of COVID-19 was reported in the Meat & Seafood team at Rt. 85. The individual has been off property since Saturday and fellow employees in close contact have been tested and will remain in quarantine until their results are back. Common Market is continuing to follow all guidelines that have been set forth by the Health Department and CDC.

Disinfecting of each store continues to happen 3 days a week and will continue for the foreseeable future. As we take the necessary steps forward, as a company, to continue adhere to guidelines and set new standards for safety, we ask that all customers and staff continue to practice social distancing, wear your mask, and frequently wash your hands both in and out of Common Market stores.  Occupancy limits will continue to be maintained at or under State of Maryland guidelines; according to the Maryland Health Department, the best way to slow the spread of COVID-19 is through social distancing, meaning avoiding close contact with others.

We appreciate your understanding and support.  Stay safe,

Román Diaz, General Manager, and The Common Market Leadership Team

COVID-19 Update November 30, 2020:

Over the weekend, an employee from the Rt. 85 café tested positive for COVID-19.  This case is not linked to the 7^th Street café case and is due to outside contact.  All employees in high to medium risk level were asked to get tested and quarantine until their results are returned.  The Rt. 85 café will operate from 10:00 am – 4:30 pm starting December 1 due to staffing availability.  The kitchen will be operating at minimum capacity and we apologize in advance to shoppers who may  find limited supply of their favorite café or Grab & Go items.  Thank you for your understanding.

Disinfecting of each store continues to happen 3 days a week and will continue for the foreseeable future. As we take the necessary steps forward, as a company, to continue adhere to guidelines and set new standards for safety, we ask that all customers and staff continue to practice social distancing, wear your mask, and frequently wash your hands both in and out of Common Market stores.  Occupancy limits will continue to be maintained at or under State of Maryland guidelines; according to the Maryland Health Department, the best way to slow the spread of COVID-19 is through social distancing, meaning avoiding close contact with others.

The Common Market will continue to put the safety of their staff and customers first and communicate openly and in a timely manner about any positive cases that have been confirmed.

We appreciate your understanding and support.  Stay safe,

Román Diaz, General Manager, and The Common Market Leadership Team

COVID-19 Update November 27, 2020:

On the evening of Tuesday, November 24, an employee from the 7^th Street Café tested positive for COVID-19 and reported this case to Common Market’s HR team. During the evening and throughout the day on Wednesday, HR contacted those employees who were in contact with the positive case and asked them to please follow up with a medical professional. Out of an abundance of caution, the Café at 7^th Street will be open for limited service until further notice.  The Sandwich, Juice, Smoothie, and Coffee bar will be closed.  Self-serve coffee, and grab and go items will continue to be available in the 7^th Street café and adjacent refrigerator cases.

At the Rt. 85 location, the Hot Bar remains closed but the other café offerings are still available.

As a reminder, if you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, both staff and customers are asked to please remain off property.  Curbside & Delivery shopping options continue to be available through the Common Market website: https://www.commonmarket.coop/shop/curbside-pickup-and-delivery/

Disinfecting of each store continues to happen 3 days a week and will continue for the foreseeable future. As we take the necessary steps forward, as a company, to continue adhere to guidelines and set new standards for safety, we ask that all customers and staff continue to practice social distancing, wear your mask, and frequently wash your hands both in and out of Common Market stores.  Occupancy limits will continue to be maintained at or under State of Maryland guidelines.

The Common Market will continue to put the safety of their staff and customers first and communicate openly and in a timely manner about any positive cases that have been confirmed.

We appreciate your understanding and support.  Stay safe,

Román Diaz, General Manager, and The Common Market Leadership Team

COVID-19 Update November 18, 2020:

Yesterday evening a second positive case of COVID-19 in our Rt. 85 was reported. This employee has had no contact with the first initial case at the Rt. 85 store and has remained off property since Friday, Nov. 13, 2020. The Frederick Health Department has been notified and contact tracing has been performed.  As the Common Market continues to address safety concerns and in following Governor Hogan ’s new mandates for Maryland, we are taking all necessary precautions to not only adhere to the guidelines but to do better. Effective today, November 18, all indoor and outdoor seating will be closed. This will allow for fewer customer touch points and will create an expanded breakroom for staff. Daily temperature taking and health monitoring among staff will begin this week. Disinfecting of each store continues to happen 3 days a week and will continue for the foreseeable future. As we take the necessary steps forward, as a company, to continue adhere to guidelines and set new standards for safety, we ask that all customers and staff continue to practice social distancing, wear your mask, and frequently wash your hands both in and out of Common Market stores. The Common Market is committed to remaining transparent in communication to customers and staff alike. As we head into the holiday season, we thank you and are grateful for your continued support!

Stay safe, Román and The Common Market Leadership Team

COVID-19 Update November 13, 2020:

As an update to the November 10 announcement below, and for transparency to both employees and the public, the Common Market Co-op has now confirmed four cases of COVID-19 in employees; three of whom work at the 7^th Street store location, and one at the Rt. 85 location.  Three of the impacted employees have not been in stores since Saturday, November 7, and one has not been in the store since Monday, November 9, 2020.  The first case was confirmed in an employee who works on the administration team. The second case was confirmed in an employee who works in the 7^th St. produce department. The third case was confirmed in an employee who works in the Rt. 85 grocery department.  The fourth case was confirmed in an employee who works in the 7^th St. produce department.  The Frederick Health Department has been notified of these cases and is conducting its own contact tracing.   All infected employees are currently self-isolating and their conditions continue to improve.   

  

Out of an abundance of caution, other staff members working in close proximity of the infected employees have been asked to schedule a COVID-19 test immediately and are self-isolating.  None of these employees will be allowed to return to work until they have met all current CDC recommended health guidelines.   Of the quarantined employees, only one has had a positive result.  All other employees who have received their results have tested negative.  

 

The health and safety of our employees and our customers is of the utmost importance.  Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Common Market has invested significant staff time and money to closely monitor shopper traffic according to state guidelines, asked customers and staff to maintain at least 6 feet social distance, and strictly required all customers and staff to wear a facemask that fully covers the nose and mouth.  We believe these policies helped get through over 9 months without a single confirmed on-site exposure.  Both stores and administrative offices are being sanitized using CDC recommended disinfectant and on a regular schedule that exceeds CDC recommended frequency.  We appreciate the public’s support and understanding during these unprecedented times.  We will continue to monitor this situation with full transparency to customers and staff because we are dedicated to doing our part in controlling the spread of this virus. 

 

Roman Diaz, General Manager & the Common Market Leadership Team 

 

Media Contact: 

Susan Schulman, Marketing & Communications Manager 

sschulman@commonmarket.coop 

301-663-3416 x 105 

COVID-19 Update November 10, 2020:

Dear Common Market Co-op Community,

Out of full transparency to our customers and staff, we are posting to let you know that The Common Market Co-op has confirmed two cases of COVID-19 in employees who work at the 927 W 7th Street store location.  Neither impacted employee has been in the store since Saturday. The first case was confirmed yesterday afternoon in an employee who works on the administration team. The second case was confirmed today in an employee who works in the produce department.  Both employees are currently self-isolating.  To our knowledge, the exposure was offsite and did not occur at the Common Market Co-op. To date, there are no known cases of employee to employee, employee to customer, or customer to employee transmission within either Common Market location.  The Frederick Health Department has been notified of these cases and is conducting its own contact tracing.

Out of an abundance of caution, other staff working in close proximity of the two infected employees have been asked to schedule a COVID-19 test immediately and are self-isolating.  None of these employees will be allowed to return to work until they have met all current CDC recommended health guidelines.

The health and safety of our employees and our customers is of the utmost importance.  Since the beginning of the pandemic, the Common Market has invested significant staff time and money to closely monitor shopper traffic according to state guidelines, asked customers and staff to maintain at least 6 feet social distance, and strictly required all customers and staff to wear a face mask that fully covers the nose and mouth.  We believe these policies helped get through over 9 months without a single confirmed on-site exposure.  Both stores and administrative offices are being sanitized using CDC recommended disinfectant and on a regular schedule that exceeds CDC recommended frequency.  We appreciate the public’s support and understanding during these unprecedented times.  We will continue to monitor this situation with full transparency to customers and staff because we are dedicated to doing our part in controlling the spread of this virus.

Roman Diaz, General Manager & the Common Market Leadership Team

Media Contact:
Susan Schulman, Marketing & Communications Manager
sschulman@commonmarket.coop
301-663-3416 x 105

 

This post will be edited to include new information as it becomes available. Check back often to stay up-to-date.