The COVID-19 virus has caused panic-buying among customers all over, particularly for toilet paper and sanitizers, a phenomenon from which South Hill Fine Foods (SHFF) has not been immune.
So far the grocery store is doing well and has actually seen an increase in business, said general manager Perry Chambers. Similar to other stores, SHFF has been short of toilet paper and most cleaning and sanitizing materials. However, a shipment of such supplies is expected to arrive on Wednesday, March 18.
“It was crazy in here (Monday),” he chuckled. “We were busier than at Christmas or Easter or the Thanksgiving weekend. We appreciate the business.”
Another item that has been in short supply has been flour and sugar since more people have decided to make their own bread. Chambers pointed out store shelves were filled with flour last weekend, while there was also half a pallet of bags in the back. However, that was all gone by Sunday night.
The number of presumptive cases of coronavirus in Saskatchewan was eight as of March 17, so the threat — so far — has been low. For cashier Ryland Hutchinson, he hasn’t been too concerned about dealing with customers who could be potentially infected. Instead, he has simply used more hand sanitizer when needed.
Most customers have been calm when shopping, but Hutchinson can tell when certain individuals have engaged in panic-buying. Such people have bought more bread, milk, flour, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies.
Most staff have not been affected by the hype surrounding COVID-19, said Chambers. Instead, they have stepped up and have increased their customer service.
“Deliveries have really picked up,” he continued, “(especially with) phone-in delivery service. It is good, but it takes more manpower, amongst everything else we’re trying to (do to) get everything stocked back up. We’re just trying to keep everything filled (and) try to keep up with all the customers’ wants and needs.”
Pratt’s Wholesaler in Winnipeg supplies South Hill Fine Foods with its products and materials. Chambers talked to the warehouse and learned it is still receiving and sending out shipments, but is limiting what it sends. Chambers expects to continue to receive groceries and other items in regular installments.
Other grocery stores
Some grocery stores in Moose Jaw are offering different shopping hours for customers who are elderly or who might have compromised immune systems so they shop without the regular crowd.
The Real Canadian Superstore has set aside Tuesdays and Fridays from 6 to 7 a.m. for seniors and residents with poor health to shop before everyone else.
Administration for Prairie Co-op is still determining whether it will offer modified hours for seniors and others. Monitor its social media pages for updates or call the store.
Safeway will also offer this service. Check its Facebook page for updates.
Walmart has said it is not offering different hours for seniors or residents with compromised immune systems either. Check its website or phone the store for updates.
