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Face coverings are set to become compulsory on public transport from 15 June
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The Aldi masks went on sale at the end of last week
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Most major supermarkets are expected to begin selling face masks within the next three weeks
Aldi’s middle aisle has started selling face masks at £4.99 for a pack of two.
The masks went on sale in stores at the end of last week and were launched as an online ‘Specialbuy’ on Sunday.
They are reusable and non-medical grade, so as not to deplete stocks available to the NHS. Aldi is also launching disposable non-medical grade masks in stores this week at £5.79 for a 10-pack.
The reusable masks are for those “looking for that extra peace of mind during unprecedented times,” according to Aldi’s website.
The description adds: “This is a general use face covering. It’s not a medical device or personal protective equipment. It is not intended for use in healthcare settings.”
Most major supermarkets are expected to begin selling face masks within the next three weeks, after overcoming initial reservations about such a move depriving frontline medical workers of supplies.
Face coverings are set to become compulsory on public transport from 15 June, in new requirements announced last week. Current guidance also recommends wearing them in enclosed public spaces such as shops.
However, some supermarkets remain reluctant to sell medical grade masks. Non-medical grade is seen as an option that avoids buying up stock that could help frontline workers.
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The Grocer revealed last week that TSL, best known for its range of feminine care products, was among companies gearing up to supply masks.
The company said it had set up capacity at a factory in Wigan to manufacture more than 100 million masks a year.
“People should expect to see masks on the shelves of most of the supermarkets, starting in the next week to three weeks,” said MD Chris Patterson.
“Supermarkets have been incredibly responsible and professional in the way they have gone about this. They made it clear that they didn’t want to touch any supplies that could possibly have helped frontline workers and that continued to be the case.
“However, as we move to the next stage of lockdown, it makes sense for people to be able to buy masks from our major supermarkets.”
Patterson said he expected different supermarkets to carry different standards of masks, with some stocking surgical face masks and others a more basic range of face coverings.
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