As the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 has spiked in communities across the country recently, so too have the number and types of face covering mandates being implemented. Currently about 65 percent of the more than 5,000 Walmart and Sam's Club stores and clubs are located in areas where there is some form of government mandate on face coverings. To help bring consistency across stores and clubs, the companies will require all shoppers to wear a face covering starting Monday, July 20.

"While we’re certainly not the first business to require face coverings, we know this is a simple step everyone can take for their safety and the safety of others in our facilities," said Dacona Smith, chief operating officer, Walmart U.S., and Lance de la Rosa, chief operating officer, Sam’s Club. "According to the CDC, face coverings help decrease the spread of COVID-19, and because the virus can be spread by people who don’t have symptoms and don’t know they are infected, it’s critically important for everyone to wear a face covering in public and social distance."

In addition to posting clear signage at the front of stores, Walmart has created the role of Health Ambassador and will station them near the entrance to remind those without a mask of the new requirements. Ambassadors will receive special training to help make the process as smooth as possible for customers. The ambassadors, identifiable by their black polo shirts, will work with customers who show up at a store without a face covering to try and find a solution. The company said it is currently considering different solutions for customers when this requirement takes effect on July 20.

To help ensure consistency with this new process, all stores will have a single entrance.

At Sam’s Clubs, associates at the entrance will follow the same process with members, politely reminding them of the requirement to wear a face covering when shopping. Complimentary masks will be provided if the member doesn’t have one — or members can purchase masks in the club.