Stockpiling by many customers has had the effect that essential food and household supplies are emptied out in supermarkets. Particularly vulnerable members of society, such as the elderly and people with disabilities, are therefore hindered from buying items they need.
In Ireland, supermarket chains have reacted to this problem with dedicated shopping hours for vulnerable groups. To support the elderly and people with disabilities, early-morning shopping hours are reserved for these groups so they can shop for essential items before other community members, and have more space in the shop.
Globally, supermarkets are reacting to this situation with similar measures and dedicate shopping hours to particular groups of society.
Read more on this initiative here.
