SUNRAYSIA supermarkets are still struggling to keep up with demand as people continue panic buying amid fears of the coronavirus COVID-19.
Woolworths has introduced quantity limits on tissues, paper towel, serviettes and wipes in addition to its existing limits on toilet paper, hand sanitiser and bulk packs of rice.
A spokesman said the supermarket was working with its suppliers to get even more product into stores and onto the shelves for customers as quickly as possible.
Coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East respiratory syndrome.
However, the coronavirus does not affect people’s bowels and the need to buy large quantities of toilet paper has caused much confusion among retailers and suppliers.
Ritchies/Fishers IGA national advertising and promotions manager James Cameron said there was no reason people should be stocking up.
“Most of the items are manufactured in Australia so it’s not as if there is going to be a shortage of those products,” he said.
“We would highly recommend that people use their common sense and just buy as they need as per usual and the world will be a normal place.”
Woolworths is pushing this same message and encouraging customers to “continue purchasing only what they need”.
Earlier this week, Woolworths introduced changes to its returns policy.
“Change of mind refunds and exchanges will not be available for a range of products that have been in higher than usual demand, including toilet paper, tissues, rice and pasta,” the Woolworths spokesman said.
“Faulty products will continue to be refunded in full, exchanged or repaired as normal.”
Mr Cameron said Ritchies/Fishers IGA was trying to keep up with demand but the need to panic buy had gone on longer than expected.
“There’s no issue with getting stock but people just need to go back to daily purchases rather than trying to stock up,” he said.
For more information about the coronavirus call 1800 675 398 or go to www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.
Woolworths’ current quantity restrictions
Tissues – two-pack limit per shop.
Paper towel, serviettes and wipes – one-pack limit per shop.
Toilet paper – one-pack limit per shop.
Hand sanitiser – two-unit limit per shop.
Bulk rice (2kg+) – one-pack limit per shop.
