LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Grocery stores across Kentucky are restocking their shelves after last week’s winter storm prompted families to rush for supplies, leaving many aisles bare at major retailers.
Kroger, Walmart and Meijer saw significant crowds as customers stocked up on essentials before the storm hit. The shopping surge created shortages across multiple product categories.
“It’s really extraordinary the lengths that our associates have gone to, to make sure our customers in our community are staying safe but also staying fed,” said Jessica Sharp, head of communications for Kroger.
Distribution challenges during storm
Sharp said nonperishable items typically run out first during weather events, but the recent storm created shortages across all product categories. Kroger uses two distribution sites to stock its Lexington stores but had to rely solely on its Prospect, Kentucky location because drivers couldn’t reach the Nashville site during the storm.
“We work really closely with our distribution centers to make sure that we’re up and moving before, during and after and that’s no different in this aftermath,” Sharp said.
Stores back to normal operations
Customers returning to restock their pantries should find shelves replenished, according to Sharp. The company has restored inventory levels across most product categories.
“We’re in recovery like everyone else but I’m happy to say our stores are up and running and in stock and ready to go. You’ll see throughout our stores all of those nonperishables are back up and ready,” Sharp said.
Sharp said preparation for weather-related events follows established protocols. The company adjusted store hours as needed based on available staff and weather conditions during the storm.
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