Retail chain Woolworths in South Africa has announced that its inventory levels have stabilized after earlier shortages of meat and vegetables in March. These shortages were attributed to supplier-related "internal challenges" and ongoing rainfall affecting certain vegetable products.
A Woolworths spokesperson stated, "Woolworth's stock levels have returned to normal, and our customers' favorite products are now readily available." The company has mitigated weather-related disruptions by sourcing products from different regions.
The meat supply issues were linked to a supplier's internal challenges, which were resolved, allowing production to resume on March 7. Woolworths noted that it would require a few days to distribute products through the supply chain.
Fresh produce shortages, specifically spinach, lettuce, and cauliflower, were largely due to heavy rains in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. Woolworths addressed these shortages by sourcing from other areas to fill the supply gap.
The shortages were notably felt in Gauteng, with customers sharing images of sparse shelves on social media. In a humorous post on X, comedian Rory Petzer described the situation as "Apocalyptic scenes at Woolworths." In response, Woolworths apologized for the inconvenience and requested patience from customers as they worked to resolve the issues.
Source: IOL