Shelves emptied in panic buying frenzy
shelves were left bare by panic-stricken shoppers.
Asda’s Toryglen store moved their foodbank collection trolly to a“secure location”after a number of items were taken from it, meaning some of the most vulnerable people in society were less likely to receive essential items.
An Asda spokesperson hit out at shoppers who snatched the donated products.
He said:“We understand people are worried at the moment, but we would urge people to be considerate of others – particularly the more vulnerable in their local community.
“We’re doing everything we can to maintain the availability of products for all our customers and are asking everyone to shop responsibly and help us ensure that donations destined to reach the most vulnerable in society get to where they are most needed.”
Stores across the region confirmed to the Reformer that their stock was being badly affected by constant panic buying from locals fearful of having to be isolated due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Tesco, which has stores on Stonelaw Road and Dalmarnock Road, declined to formally comment on the shopping spree, but stated they had placed restrictions on the amounts of items that could be bought.
However, a store source stressed there was no reason for people to bulk buy and added:“There is no need to do that, all that it is doing is having a short-term impact.
“Everyone should be able to access the essentials.”
Anne Marie McKenzie, manager of the Co-op in Rutherglen, said that her store had not been affected as badly as some of the major chains. She added:“We are receiving deliveries daily with all the essentials.”
The store has also been printing viral kindness forms.
If locals sign up to the forms then they will be called upon to help others through picking up shopping, posting mail or even giving a simple phone call.
Aldi also confirmed that they were taking action to limit certain purchases.
A spokesperson said:“All our stores remain open and continue to serve our valued customers.
“We have good product availability and our incredible colleagues are working tirelessly to restock and replenish shelves as quickly as they can.
“As we have seen an unprecedented demand across our range, we will be limiting customer purchases to four units on all products to ensure that all of our customers have an opportunity to purchase them.”