Woolworths says that it has seen a big increase in the number of online orders going through its system since the coronavirus pandemic was declared a state of disaster in South Africa. The group said it will do everything it can to fulfil the orders – especially in light of certain products that are selling fast – but has also introduced new procedures to limit exposure in delivering orders. For all online orders, Woolworths is taking precautionary measures to reduce the risk of virus transmission. Here are some changes that are taking effect from 16 March 2020:

• No contact delivery
• When drivers arrive at the delivery address, they have been instructed to ring the bell, and stand back at a safe distance.
• As a precaution, during this time orders will be packaged in bags so that delivery containers do not need to be handled.
• The drivers will place the bags at the door and wait for someone to answer.
• The driver will then record a name, with the date and time of delivery in front of the customer, so paperwork will not need to be signed.
• The items can be collected and allow customers to quickly head back indoors; the driver will take any delivery containers and head off.