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While small businesses suffer, how do COVID restrictions impact big box stores?

Big Boxx Stores

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- Lowes, Walmart, King Soopers, and more big box stores will continue to operate and serve the public in Southern Colorado, even if further restrictions come down from the State.

According to the Pueblo County Department of Public Health and Environment, certain big box retailers will not have a limit on capacity, no matter the restrictions placed on the county. However, they will need to adhere to social distancing guidelines and both employees and customers will be required to wear masks.

However, smaller businesses and restaurants will deal with the brunt of COVID-19 restrictions.

Last week, El Paso County and Pueblo County moved to Level Orange on the Colorado COVID-19 Dial. This means retail businesses and restaurants will need to limit capacity to 25%.

If the counties move into a Stay at Home Order, then these businesses will have to close their shops, and only serve their goods via curbside pickup or delivery.

However, despite bringing in hundreds of more foot traffic, a Stay at Home Order would have minimal impact on Big Box Stores. Big retailers like Walmart or King Soopers are considered essential businesses, according to the state of Colorado, and would continue to operate.

We asked health officials in Pueblo County why these big box stores continue to operate under a Stay at Home order while businesses with far less foot traffic are required to close shop. KRDO still hasn't received an answer.

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Dan Beedie

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