Key Takeaways
- Panic-buying, or "pantry loading," can stress the system and cause supply chain issues, so it’s essential to buy only what you need.
- Grocery stores are preparing for the influx of demand by increasing orders of high-velocity staples, adjusting staffing levels, and reallocating inventory.
- Retailers may face challenges in restocking shelves due to weather and road conditions, which can disrupt deliveries.
- The best time to go to the store for restocked shelves is usually in the early- to mid-morning, but it can vary depending on the store.
- Non-perishable, high-energy foods, and items that don’t require electricity or cooking, such as canned proteins, nuts, and chocolate, are good options to stock up on.
Introduction to the Challenges of Winter Storms
The arrival of a big winter storm can cause widespread panic, leading to empty shelves in grocery stores across the country. Shoppers have been panic-buying in anticipation of the extreme cold and storm, which is expected to hit more than half of the country. USA TODAY talked to grocery and food experts to understand how prepared stores are for this influx of demand, how retailers handle getting more product to restock shelves, and how long shoppers may need to wait.
The Consequences of Panic-Buying
According to Doug Baker, vice president of industry relations and supply chain for FMI, panic-buying, or "pantry loading," can stress the system and cause supply chain issues. Neil Saunders, a retail analyst at GlobalData, notes that panic breeds more panic buying, as seen during the pandemic. David Ortega, a food economist and professor at Michigan State University, advises shoppers to ensure they have basic food staples and shelf-stable foods to last a few days, but not to panic-buy or purchase more than they need.
Restocking Empty Shelves
Since the storm has been brewing for several days, many retailers have been preparing, said Ortega. Weather and road conditions for the trucks getting groceries to stores will play a big role in whether retailers will be able to keep their shelves stocked. Retailers learned a lot during the pandemic and have made improvements to the supply chain, said Baker. Grocers are working to keep up with demand, and some retailers are offering online ordering and grocery delivery as an alternative to in-store shopping.
Preparing for Huge Spikes in Demand
Most grocery retailers use professional weather forecasts to predict demand and adjust inventory levels accordingly, said Saunders. However, forecasts can change regularly, and huge spikes in demand over a short period can still cause shortages. Retailers begin preparing as soon as a major storm looks likely, Ortega said, by increasing orders of high-velocity staples, adjusting staffing levels, and reallocating inventory from slower-moving categories.
When to Go to the Store
The best time to go to the store for restocked shelves is usually in the early- to mid-morning, said Baker. However, it can vary depending on the store, and some may restock at night, overnight, or early in the morning. It’s also a good idea to ask an employee at the store when shelves will be restocked, said Katherine Black, a partner at global management consulting firm Kearney.
Common Panic-Buying Items
Milk, eggs, bread, toilet paper, and water are among the most common things people buy ahead of storms, said Baker. Shoppers may also want to consider items that don’t require electricity or cooking, such as canned proteins, nuts, and chocolate. Ortega added that people also tend to buy ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and items like flashlights, propane, ice melt/salt, and firewood.
Alternative Solutions
If you find empty shelves, consumers can be creative, said Black. Check different aisles within your store for the same thing or for a substitute product. Instead of bottled water, try filling your bathtub with water so that if you lose water, you will be able to flush toilets. If bread is out of stock, try things like crackers or bagels. Consumers who picked up a bread-baking habit during the COVID pandemic may want to bring that back instead of buying bread.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while it’s essential to be prepared for a big winter storm, panic-buying can cause more harm than good. By understanding how retailers prepare for huge spikes in demand and when to go to the store, shoppers can make informed decisions and avoid contributing to supply chain issues. Additionally, being creative and finding alternative solutions can help make the most of the situation. By working together and being mindful of our shopping habits, we can ensure that everyone has access to the essential items they need during a winter storm.