Louisiana-owned Rouses Markets was the last to close before Hurricane Francine made landfall on Sept. 11 and the first to reopen on Sept. 12.
“We know how important it is to be here for our customers, especially during challenging times like these,” said Donny Rouse, CEO of Rouses Markets.
Hurricane Francine struck as a Category 2 storm, bringing strong winds and rains. The storm left hundreds of thousands across South Louisiana without power, particularly in Terrebonne, Lafourche, St. Mary, Orleans and Jefferson parishes, where Rouses Markets has numerous locations.
As doors reopened on Sept. 12, customers were welcomed by familiar faces from every department, offering hot meals, cold drinks and friendly greetings.
“Our team is truly remarkable,” Rouse said. “Despite facing many of the same challenges as our customers, like being without power, they show up, ready to serve with a smile. I want to thank them for their hard work and dedication.”
Essential items like water, ice and cleanup supplies were fully stocked, with more shipments arriving throughout the day.
“We work closely with our suppliers well in advance of storms to ensure our customers have what they need when they need it,” Rouse added.
Rouses Markets is also partnering with local food banks to support the hardest-hit areas and ensure that those in need have access to essential supplies. In addition, the company has a disaster relief fund in place for its team members, providing immediate financial assistance to employees and their families should they need support during the recovery process.
[RELATED: Focus On Local, First-To-Market Approach Sets Rouses Apart Along Gulf Coast]
Between Sept. 9-11, nearly one million customers shopped at Rouses Markets, a demand the company was well-prepared to meet. Rouses consistently plans for extreme weather, working with suppliers to ensure stores are stocked with essential products – before, during and after the storm.
“We have 64 stores across three states, with two more opening in Mississippi in the next 30 days. This level of preparation allows us to keep serving our communities when they need us most. We’re here for our customers year-round, especially during times like these,” Rouse said.
Rouses Markets coordinated with city, parish and state authorities on the timing of the closures on Sept. 11 from Hurricane Francine. All stores were staffed by team members who volunteered to work.
“I had so many team members offering to come in and help, even on their day off,” said Jeremy Simmons, store director of the Rouses Markets in New Orleans’ Warehouse District. “As always, we’re here for our neighbors. It’s what we do.”
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