LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan Retailers Association and Meijer are urging consumers to shop as normal during the new COVID-19 order.
Overbuying and stockpiling may cause supply chain ripple effects
“Michigan has an ample supply of food products and other items. But, when shoppers panic buy products like toilet paper, paper towel and other items, it creates a ripple effect within the supply chain,” said MDARD Director McDowell. “Buying what your household will use for the week keeps the supply chain moving, ensures everyone has access to what they need and allows the stores to replenish shelves for your next shopping trip.”
According to McDowell, COVID-19 has changed everything about how people come together, especially with the holidays right around the corner.
“The impact of this pandemic has not been easy, and it is not over as we see rampant community spread,” McDowell added. “One thing we can all do to help each other during this time is buying only what you need. This ensures your friends and neighbors have access to food and other necessary products during this pandemic.”
Meijer, which has more than 100 grocery stores throughout the State of Michigan, will continue to focus on keeping ample supply for customers.
“Our goal is to have everything our customers need, and our supply chain and store teams are working very hard to keep our shelves stocked during these busy times,” said Todd Weer, Senior Vice President of stores for Meijer. “As long as shoppers buy the number of items they normally would, then everyone should be able to check off the items on their grocery list when they visit the store.”