Woolworths urges shoppers to stay calm amid eggs-asperating store policy

In the wake of a recent bird flu outbreak, retailers have implemented several measures to ensure fair supply for shoppers.

One of Australia's leading supermarket chains called for a sense of calm among shoppers as it introduced 'precautionary' purchase limits.


Woolworths recently implemented new measures for purchasing eggs.

The new policy, set to take effect on Thursday, 4 July, would restrict customers to buying a maximum of two packs per person.

The rule was a direct response to the egg industry's ongoing challenges due to the avian influenza virus.


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Eggs are a staple in any home, as it can be prepared in many ways. Image Credit: Pexels/Cottonbro Studio


This purchase limit wanted to ensure a steady supply of eggs for all customers.

'Along with other retailers, we're expecting a short-term delay in stock from one of our egg suppliers in NSW, ACT and Victoria due to the temporary closure of one of their packing sheds,' a Woolworths spokesperson said in a statement.

'Their supply is expected to recover over the next week as they ramp up operations at their other sites.'


The spokesperson also emphasised that the majority of customers typically purchase one carton of eggs at a time and suggested that there should be no significant change in shopping habits any time soon.

'We encourage shoppers to be mindful of others and continue to only buy what they normally would,' the spokesperson ended.

The call for calm comes at a time when consumers might be tempted to stockpile essentials—reminiscent of COVID-19's early days when supermarket shelves were stripped bare of essential items.

In a previous article, Coles introduced a similar policy—they placed a temporary two-carton limit on egg purchases.

Suppliers also indicated that the current situation was the worst they have experienced in more than 20 years, with the possibility of egg prices tripling soon.

However, Coles' egg purchase limit policy affects all states except Western Australia.


Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that affects birds.

The virus could be transmitted through contaminated droppings, respiratory secretions, and other materials.

While it primarily affects bird populations, human transmissions are also possible.

Australia reported its first human infection with the virus earlier this year, which allegedly originated from India.
Key Takeaways

  • Woolworths introduced a two-pack per person limit on egg sales in NSW, Victoria, and the ACT due to a temporary supply disruption caused by avian flu.
  • The purchase limit was a 'precautionary' measure to manage stock issues following the closure of a packing shed at an egg farm affected by the outbreak.
  • Woolworths reassured customers that the supply issue was temporary and that the supply could recover over the next week.
  • Coles also introduced a similar egg purchase restriction, affecting all states and territories except Western Australia.
Have you noticed any egg shortages in your local supermarket? How do you feel about the new purchase limits? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.
 
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I live in Adelaide. I noticed a shortage of eggs in a supermarket (not Woolworths) last Tuesday.

Has there been big promotions on Toilet Paper? there was some empty shelves for that too?
 

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