Australia is facing an alcohol shortage with industry experts warning liquor store shelves could be stripped bare of some popular drinks within weeks.
Endeavour Group, the owner of Dan Murphy’s and BWS, said major disruptions to supply chains across the globe has hampered access to some beverages.
Stocks affected include imported drinks such as liqueurs and spirits, with the Covid-19 pandemic continuing to cause logistic problems worldwide.
Chief executive Steve Donohue said sourcing issues have been exacerbated as Australians celebrating coming out of lockdown empty shelves.
‘We have proactively allowed for more lead time when importing products to mitigate any potential supply chain delays,’ he said.
Endeavour Group, the owner of Dan Murphy’s and BWS, has warned Australia is facing an alcohol shortage as major global supply chains are disrupted
‘There are also some stock constraints on imported liqueurs and certain spirits across the world, with many customers getting into making cocktails at home with bars and venues closed during lockdown.’
While access to a number of overseas products remains uncertain, Mr Donohue said the company is confident Australians will still be able to pick up their favourite drinks ahead of the festive seasons.
‘We don’t expect any major disruptions for customers leading into Christmas.
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‘If a customer temporarily can’t find their favourite imported drink, they will be able to find suitable alternatives in our stores.’
More than 500 local brands have been added to the beverage chain’s network since the start of the pandemic.
Chief executive Steve Donohue said liqueurs and spirits have been a popular choice for customers coming out of Covid-19 lockdowns. Pictured: Customers leave a Dan Murphy’s store
‘We have more Australian-made drinks than ever before in our stores, so we encourage customers to support Australian-made drinks leading up to Christmas,’ he said.
The company also operates alcohol delivery service Jimmy Brings and more than 340 pubs across the country.
The warning comes as discount retailer The Reject Shop advised it was expecting shortages due to international supply issues.
Chief executive Andre Reich said the complications would likely continue until June and were affecting the majority of the stores products, including access to food, packaged goods, and homewares.
Mr Donohue said Endeavour Group had added more than 500 Australian-made brands to its network since the beginning of last year. Pictured: A Dan Murphy’s employee checks stock
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