LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) — Grocery stores across Kentucky are restocking shelves after last week’s winter storm triggered a rush for supplies, leaving many aisles empty at major retailers.
Kroger, Walmart, and Meijer experienced heavy customer traffic as shoppers stocked up on essential items ahead of the storm. The surge in demand led to shortages across several product categories.
“It’s really extraordinary the lengths that our associates have gone to make sure our customers and communities are staying safe and staying fed,” said Jessica Sharp, Kroger’s head of communications.
Distribution challenges during the storm
Sharp said nonperishable goods typically sell out first during severe weather, but this storm caused shortages across nearly all categories. Kroger normally relies on two distribution centers to supply its Lexington stores, but during the storm, the company had to depend solely on its Prospect, Kentucky, facility because drivers were unable to access the Nashville distribution site.
“We work very closely with our distribution centers to make sure we’re moving before, during, and after an event, and that’s no different in this recovery period,” Sharp said.
Stores returning to normal operations
Customers returning to replenish their pantries should now see restocked shelves, Sharp said, adding that inventory levels have been restored across most departments.
“We’re in recovery like everyone else, but I’m happy to say our stores are open, operating, and stocked and ready to go,” she said. “You’ll see that nonperishable items are back on shelves throughout our stores.”
Sharp also noted that Kroger follows established protocols when preparing for severe weather. Store hours were adjusted as needed during the storm based on staffing levels and weather conditions.
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