Supermarkets facing possible supply shortage due to Townsville floods

SOUTHERN FLOODING




Supermarkets in Port Douglas and Mossman may face a shortage of some products this week as the flooding around Townsville affects supply chains.

The main trucking route along the Bruce Highway between Ayr and Townville is closed due to major flooding in the area.

Woolworths Northern Queensland Operations Manager, Tina Anandji, is confident they will be able to supply stores in the Far North with essential items.

“While the road access has been challenging, we’ve secured two charter planes to carry 30 tonnes of fresh food and essential items into Cairns on Tuesday, with more to follow in the days ahead,” she said.

"Additionally, we have since secured a barge into Cairns, which will deliver an extra 300 tonnes of fresh food and groceries on Friday.

“We'll continue to do all we can to get stock into Far North Queensland while the roads are cut, so our customers can shop with the confidence we’ll have stock as and when they need it.”

However, a spokesperson from Coles was not as optimistic about items making it through flood-affected regions to stores in the Far North. 

"Road closures due to flooding have disrupted deliveries to some Coles stores in Far North Queensland,” the spokesperson said.

“As a result, some lines may be out of stock at stores in the area.

“We apologise to any customers who find an item they wanted to purchase is unavailable.

“Our delivery trucks are ready to resupply our stores as soon as roads are opened again."

Coronet’s IGA head office did not respond to Newsport’s request for comment.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting more rain for the Townsville area until the end of next weekend. 

 

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