Grocery stores taking steps to prevent supply shortage ahead of possible 2nd wave of COVID-19

ATLANTA — Remember the shortages at local grocery stores when the pandemic started? A new report says grocery stores are taking steps to make sure that does not happen if there’s a surge in cases this fall.

Channel 2′s Lauren Pozen reached out to local stores about their plans. Kroger wouldn’t say specifically if they are taking part, but representatives did say they’re keeping a strong supply chain.

Shoppers say that’s a good thing.

“I remember hand sanitizer skyrocketing. I remember empty isles, toilet paper and cleaning products, there was no paper towels,” said shopper Justin Streater.

Streater said he also drove nearly an hour away to get those basics during the first wave of coronavirus.

Grocery stores remember too.

The Wall Street Journal is reporting stores across the country are stocking up on products to avoid shortages if there is a second wave of coronavirus.

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Shopper Joshua Berwald said this is proactive but also thinks it’s preparing for something that might not even be an issue.

“Grocery stores are just reacting to what their demand might be, what they expect their demand might be not necessarily what the need and emergency and shortage actually happen,” Berwald said.

Either way, both shoppers Pozen spoke with say their shopping habits have changed for good.

From going to the store more than a few times a week to keeping an eye out for canned goods.

“Produce has a limited shelf life so you are not going to be able to stockpile produce,” Berwald said.

We’ve reached out to Southeastern Grocers, that’s who the Wall Street Journal spoke with, but they have not yet responded to our request for comment.

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Cox Media Group