Schnucks to close earlier, citing pandemic-influenced job market

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Schnucks supermarkets are reducing their hours, citing a "challenging labor market" and changed customer shopping patterns.

The regional supermarket chain said in a news release this week that its stores will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. effective next Monday. The deli, meat and seafood counters will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. The stores are currently open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Schucks has two locations in Columbia -- the store on Forum Boulevard and an EatWell brand store on Providence Road in downtown Columbia -- and another in Jefferson City. The company is also opening a third location at St. Charles Road and Clark Lane in Columbia.

The coronavirus pandemic has rocked the labor market nationwide, with businesses across the country saying they're having problems hiring new employees. Schnucks acknowledged the dynamic in its release, saying "the new hours are in response to the challenging labor market as well as evolving customer shopping patterns."

The St. Louis-based chain also said it will provide a new bonus to employees for their work during the pandemic. The bonus will be up to $600 and will be paid in January. On Oct. 7 the store will host a company-wide job fair at its 111 stores to hire for a variety of positions.

No experience is needed for the positions offered and people that are hired at the career fair and remain employed through Jan. 2 will be eligible for the performance and retention bonus.

Schnucks will also close on Christmas Day and the next day to allow workers time with family and friends.

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