Empty shelves are common around the island for specific cleaning products, sanitisers, antibacterial liquid soaps and antiseptic products.
WITH the constant news of COVID-19 and reports of people actively “panic buying” specific household items, local supermarkets, village shops and convenient stores have been trying to maintain customers’ demands for toiletries, sanitisers and cleaners.
Yesterday, The Barbados Advocate visited a number of businesses in Welches, Warrens, Rock Dundo and Cave Hill to find out how Barbadians have been responding to the prevalent coronavirus and their preparedness for this event, which is yet to affect our shores.
At Cost-U-Less, despite the full car park, it was relatively calm inside with shoppers casually buying their necessities. The supervisor noted that over the weekend, people were seeking sanitary wipes and cleaning products.
In the neighbouring iMart, there was an absence of antiseptic products and hand sanitisers. There was also a vacant space for a popular brand of antibacterial household sprays.
At Massy supermarket in Warrens, shelves were being restocked with key items. Savings Plus in Rock Dundo reported a busy weekend with shoppers focusing on buying hand sanitiser (which was out of stock). Management at the St. Michael food supplier noted that people also were looking for disinfectants and cleaners.
Small corner shop operators in Cave Hill also reported a demand for bleach and rubbing alcohol.
In the case of Savings Plus supermarket, the management noted that there was a high demand for toilet paper – a popular item not only for Barbadians but panic-buying consumers across the globe. Amazon sites showed a shortage of paper towels and toilet paper as people in the Western countries hoard supplies.
Last weekend, several videos on social media and in the media highlighted local shoppers buying up cleaners, bleach, disinfectant products and toilet paper. In local media, there were also accusations by consumers of price gouging. International experts agree that the behaviour (panic buying) seen due to the COVID-19 outbreak is usually short-lived.