LANDOVER, Md. — Giant Food said Tuesday that a recent pilot program involving the distribution of COVID-19 vaccinations to eligible Marylanders was a success.

The pilot program announced by the State of Maryland last month began with 35 retail pharmacies throughout the state at Giant, Walmart and Martin’s locations. Giant said the vaccine administrations, which began on January 25 for residents in phase 1A/B/C, resulted in zero waste as all doses distributed to Giant’s 22 Maryland stores were administered within a one-week period.

“We’ve felt extremely fortunate to be selected for this collaboration with the state of Maryland, developing the best practices that will be the foundation for an expanded rollout of the vaccine,” said Paul Zvaleny, director of pharmacy operations at Giant Food. “Retailers like Giant, with many trusted pharmacy locations throughout the state, have a great responsibility and opportunity to help our communities tremendously. We are proud to report zero wastage of the vaccines distributed to our stores, and in one week we were able to administer all of the doses that were allocated to our teams.”

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan visited the District Heights Giant pharmacy in Prince George’s County, to speak about the pilot vaccination program and efforts to further reach disadvantaged communities.

“Along with the Biden administration, we are rapidly expanding the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to the neighborhood pharmacies that people know and trust,” Governor Hogan said. “We are also prioritizing pharmacies in underserved areas to help ensure equitable access,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “I want to thank our partners at Giant Food for stepping up to vaccinate the vulnerable, and being such efficient and effective administrators of these vaccines.”

Giant said it continues to work ensure equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine to the communities that have been most negatively impacted by the pandemic. To decrease barriers to access, Giant has leveraged its close community partnerships that have been able to assist with identifying populations that are most in need of receiving the vaccine. The retailer said its efforts are aligned with the Maryland Department of Health’s guidance and directives. Giant added that it is working with local authorities to secure additional doses for distribution.