As COVID-19 restrictions begin to ease in select locations around the world, the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) revamped its mask policy while remaining committed to the health and safety of all its associates and patrons.

In accordance with the Department of Defense (DoD) and Centers for Disease Control policies, and in concurrence with individual installation Commanding Officers, NEXCOM will no longer require fully vaccinated patrons or associates to wear a face mask when entering a Navy Lodge or NEX store. This new policy will go into effect when the Commanding Officer of that installation deems appropriate, and at no instance prior. For those locations where masks are still required, NEXCOM will follow all set guidance within those facilities. NEXCOM is a worldwide command, operating six different business lines around the globe, so each individual location may have a specific mask policy based on directives issued by base leadership. To avoid any confusion, signage has been placed at the entryways at all Navy Lodges and NEX stores as a reminder of the current policy that is in effect at that location.

At all times, NEXCOM associates and patrons who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 should continue to follow applicable DoD face covering guidance, which includes wearing masks while indoors. Moreover, any NEXCOM associate or patron who is vaccinated but feels more comfortable wearing a mask may continue to do so. NEX concessionaires, food service personnel and contractors will continue to follow and obey all state and local guidelines. In addition, all NEX barbers and beauticians will continue to wear masks until revised guidance from the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED) is received.

“The health and safety of our associates and patrons remains a top priority at all of our NEXCOM facilities,” said retired Rear Adm. Robert J. Bianchi, Chief Executive Officer of NEXCOM. “Throughout the pandemic, our associates tirelessly worked day in and day out to provide our deserving patrons a safe location for their shopping needs or while staying at our Navy Lodges. I remain committed to maintaining that same level of vigilance in ensuring the health and safety of all as we emerge from this pandemic and move into the future.”

As has been done over the past year, NEX locations will maintain stringent cleaning and sanitation measures, especially in high traffic, high touch areas like food courts and restrooms. Patrons will still be asked to maintain social distancing while shopping. Navy Lodges will continue to practice its ‘Shipshape and Squared Away’ cleaning protocols, providing a safe and secure environment for its guests. In addition, breakfast has been reintroduced and guests can utilize express check-out. Some facilities will also keep plexiglass shields in place at cash registers and front desk locations as well.

NEXCOM is also committed to continuing many of the programs implemented over the past year to assist patrons during the pandemic including its Buy Online, Pick Up in Person program that offers contactless pick up at the NEX as well as increasing the number of items available for online purchase. Many locations - overseas in particular - continue to provide a downrange/quarantine support program for service members who have either been placed on restriction of movement by their ashore commands or for those Sailors stationed aboard ship who may be unable to go ashore in foreign ports. This program essentially brings the store to the Sailor’s door! Also, NEX locations will continue to arrange product displays to help with social distancing and offer a more comfortable shopping environment. Where applicable, as NEX Food Courts reopen for full seating, tables are being reconfigured to allow for additional distance between seats and Wi-Fi capability is being boosted as an added benefit.

“The mission of NEXCOM is vital to our Navy’s readiness,” said Bianchi. “We are continually evaluating and improving our programs and offerings to ensure our customers have everything they need to make their lives better and easier.”

Looking to the future, NEXCOM is also planning to implement several new initiatives later in the year. At NEX Barber and Beauty, automotive and tailoring shops, patrons will soon be able to schedule appointments online. Navy Lodges will be implementing Direct Key, which will provide guests a more secure and smooth entry to the hotel and their individual guest room.