Grocery stores say they get hit with too much business into too few days. They asked the state to stretch out its schedule, by staggering the benefit payouts over a period of time that’s twice as long. 

 

Starting next month, the stores will get their way, but what’s good news for grocery stores will mean a difficult October for most people who get that assistance. The reworking of the schedule means that more than two-thirds will have to wait anywhere from 4 days to a week and a half longer than they’re used to. In response to the potential problem, the Tennessee Grocers and Convenience Store Association is recommending its members build up contributions to food banks now.