Consumers ‘switching to frozen foodstuffs’

SHOPPERS are turning to frozen food as the Covid-19 outbreak spreads.

Richard Walker, managing director of upermarket chain Iceland, said there was no need for shoppers to panic buy, with the retailer reporting “no supply issues” despite the outbreak.

The comments come as the Deeside-based company with more than 900 stores around the UK revealed it has cut 29% of its yearly plastic usage after a series of sustainability pledges in 2018.

Mr Walker said shoppers were turning to frozen food in a bid to stockpile in case of self-isolation, but warned that panic buying could harm more vulnerable customers.

He said: “Sales are definitely ahead of forecasts for the past week. People are choosing to stock up on frozen and our deliveries are above expectations as well.

“We’ve had no problems with supply or stock whatsoever, although obviously demand has been high. I think customers also have a responsibility to shop responsibly as not everyone can afford to stockpile. It’s important we all work together.”

Trade publication The Grocer reported that a supermarket boss called on the Government to remove the 5p bag plastic charge following the virus outbreak, but Mr Walker said he believed there was no need for the change.

Mr Walker has spearheaded efforts by the retailer to cut down on plastic usage, with the chain removing 3,794 tonnes of plastic from its stores.

Iceland said 74 of its frozen meal lines have been moved from non-recyclable black plastic and into paperboard-based trays.

It said it has also made “significant progress” in addressing other difficult to recycle plastics, including PVC and polystyrene.

Iceland has engaged almost 100 own label suppliers to establish working groups and set out frameworks for plastic removal.