“In any instance where a customer creates a threatening, erratic or dangerous shopping experience — whether they are openly carrying a firearm or not — we will engage local law enforcement to protect our customers and associates,” the statement further reads, according to NBC affiliate News Channel 8 and South Florida Sun Sentinel.
The decision to permit open carrying of guns in Florida stores is met with polarized reactions. Even other retail giants have a completely different stance on the ruling. NBC 6 South Florida that stores such as Walmart, Winn Dixie, Harveys and Fresco y Más will continue to prohibit customers from open carrying.
“Motivated by our desire to create a safe environment in our stores and clubs, we request that customers no longer openly carry firearms into Walmart or Sam’s Club locations in states where open carry is permitted – unless they are authorized law enforcement,” reads Walmart’s policy on its website.