With face coverings set to become compulsory on public transport from 15 June, most of the UK’s major retailers are beginning to stock them. Masks are still in high demand and stock levels are fluctuating, but here are the retailers that are receiving stock, what types are available and a comparison of prices.
Aldi
Aldi began stocking face coverings in the first week of June, when it launched two-packs of non-medical masks in its middle aisle (rsp: £4.99). Also available as an online Specialbuy, the cotton masks are reusable and machine-washable, so as not to deplete stocks of medical-grade versions available to the NHS. The discounter is also bringing disposable non-medical grade masks to stores this week, priced at £5.79 for a 10-pack.
From the end of July - to coincide with the wearing of masks becoming compulsory in stores - the retailer will also stock three-packs of reusable face coverings for both adults (rsp: £3.99) and children (rsp: £2.99). These will feature soft elastic straps and come in varying colours and patterns, including spotty and leopard print.
Asda
As well as non-medical, disposable masks in packs of four (rsp: £2.80) and five (rsp: £3.50), Asda has added a range of reusable face coverings to its George offer. The fabric products come in a variety of prints and colours and are sold in packs of two (rsp: £2.50-£3). The retailer also has plans to add a range of childrens’ masks in July, featuring “fun designs for kids”.
Co-op
Also selling two types of non-medical grade mask is the Co-op, which launched disposable and reusable variants into all 2,600 stores this week. Customers can now buy packs of five single-use masks for £3, while the reusable ones cost £3 each. The latter are made of machine-washable cotton and can be used up to 20 times, according to the retailer.
Iceland
The frozen food retailer recently put masks on sale, but these are currently sold out. Iceland said it hoped to have more available in stores “in the next week or two”, but did not provide details on the type of mask or pricing.
Tesco
Ten-packs of non-medical, disposable face coverings have gone on sale at Tesco, priced at £6.50.
Waitrose
A range of face coverings designed by British fashion brands has gone on sale at Waitrose and John Lewis. The reusable masks feature designs from brands such as Mulberry, Julien Macdonald and Halpern, and 100% of proceeds will go to charity (rsp: £15/pack of three).
The Grocer has contacted Lidl, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Marks & Spencer about their plans to sell masks and will update this article as we get more information.
No comments yet