“Be considerate and don’t panic buy,” UK retailers urge shoppers

16 Mar 2020 --- UK food retailers have written a joint letter to shoppers in the wake of coronavirus (COVID-19) to reassure them about the extra steps being taken and calls on them to be considerate in the way they shop, discouraging stockpiling and panic buying. Over the last few days, many UK supermarkets have been running out of some items because of coronavirus-linked stockpiling. 

Food retailers – some of which have already begun rationing the sales of certain products to avoid them selling out completely – are working with governments and suppliers to increase deliveries to stores so that shelves are well-stocked.

Supermarkets are currently working round the clock to help customers get the products they need, stresses the British Retail Consortium (BRC). Retailers have written an open letter to UK consumers which has been published in national newspapers and social media yesterday and today. In the letter, retailers call on their customers to support one another during this challenging time. 

Speaking on behalf of the retailers, Helen Dickinson, OBE, BRC Chief Executive says “Retailers are working incredibly hard to keep shops well-stocked and deliveries running as smoothly as possible. In the face of unprecedented demand as a result of coronavirus, food retailers have come together to ask their customers to support each other to make sure everyone can get access to the products they need.”

The letter reads as follows:

“We know that many of you are worried about the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19). We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials you need.”

“We are working closely with the Government and our suppliers to keep food moving quickly through the system and making more deliveries to our stores to ensure our shelves are stocked. Those of us with online delivery and click-and-collect services are running them at full capacity to help you get the products you need when you need them.”

“But we need your help too. We would ask everyone to be considerate in the way they shop. We understand your concerns but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without. There is enough for everyone if we all work together.”

 Edited by Gaynor Selby