Before we begin this episode of Inside Trader Joe's, we want to take a moment to talk about the current state of things.

As we discussed in our last episode, COVID-19 continues to affect us all.

The crew in each of our stores continue to do incredible work every day,

and we're grateful for their efforts to support each other and the communities they serve.

Our main focus as a company has been doing what's right for our crew members and customers.

For decades, that focus is as strong today as it has ever been,

and in fact, it's that focus that provides the answer to one of the most frequently asked questions we're hearing right now.

Customers are asking if, given current circumstances, we're planning on offering delivery or curbside pickup.

We understand the impulse, and we know that some other retailers are offering these services.

We also know, those offerings don't always translate into positive results.

Creating an online shopping system for curbside pickup or the infrastructure for delivery, it's a massive undertaking.

It's something that takes months or years to plan, build, and implement, and it requires tremendous resources.

Well, at Trader Joe's, the reality is that over the last couple of decades,

we've invested those resources in our people, rather than build an infrastructure that eliminates the need for people.

The bottom line here is that our people remain our most valued resource.

While other retailers were cutting staff and adding things like self-check out curbside pickup and outsourcing delivery options,

we were hiring more crew, and we continue to do that.

We know that this period of distancing will end, and when it does, our crew will be in our stores to help you find your next favorite product, just as they've always been.

And just as they are right now, we're so grateful for the dedication of our crew, for the stability of our leadership,

and the work that's being done at all of our stores around the country to ensure that our neighbors have access to the food that they need.

We're proud of that work.

We understand that it reflects a continued significant need for connection, and as it were for content, especially as we all do our part to maintain physical distance.

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