Woolworths grappling to replenish supermarkets
Australia's largest supermarket chain Woolworths Ltd (ASX:WOW) says delivery of food into Queensland supermarkets continues to be challenging and it could take weeks before stock levels return to normal in many stores.
"Customers are urged to be patient as we work to replenish the shelves," Woolworths said.
ADF airlifts of emergency provisions commenced yesterday into Townsville and Bunderberg and will continue today. This has alleviated some pressure on stores in regional Queensland but fresh food supplies are still very low.
Woolworths said, "A limited number of trucks have started to get through via road and we remain hopeful that more roads will begin to open up in the next few days."
"This will enable us to send larger volumes of stock into stores, although there is obviously a significant backlog. Deliveries are now getting through to Roma, Dalby, and Plainlands."
Two supermarkets in the Ipswich area remain closed due to power outages and flooding. Stores in the Brisbane area that have been closed will be reopening during the course of today. This includes Kenmore and Toowong which are now receiving deliveries and are being restocked as quickly as possible.
The Brismeat meat processing centre near Ipswich is now operational again which means fresh meat supplies will recommence soon.
Woolworths also said customer donations to the Salvation Army at the checkout are close to $2 million, which it will match dollar for dollar.