Woolworths stock levels recover after vegetable shortages
Retail chain stabilizes inventory after supply challenges
SOUTH AFRICA – Retail chain Woolworths in South Africa has confirmed that its stock levels have returned to normal following earlier shortages of vegetables and meat in March.
The company attributed these issues to internal supplier challenges and prolonged rainfall affecting certain crops.
A Woolworths spokesperson said, “Woolworth’s stock levels have returned to normal, and our customers’ favorite products are now readily available.” The company tackled the supply disruptions by securing products from different regions.
The shortages impacted several products, with fresh produce particularly affected. Heavy rains in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng led to supply delays, notably for spinach, lettuce, and cauliflower.
To ensure continued availability, Woolworths sourced these items from alternative areas. Meat supply disruptions were linked to a supplier’s internal challenges, which were resolved, allowing production to resume on March 7.
The company noted that it would take a few days to distribute products through the supply chain.
During the shortages, customers in Gauteng expressed frustration as they found near-empty shelves. Social media users highlighted the issue, with comedian Rory Petzer humorously describing the situation as “Apocalyptic scenes at Woolworths.”
Woolworths acknowledged the inconvenience and asked for customer patience while working to stabilize supplies.
Raisin industry withstands weather disruptions
Elsewhere in the agricultural sector, South Africa’s raisin industry is holding steady despite unseasonal rainfall and humidity in the Lower Orange River region.
These conditions affected drying ratios, sugar content, and overall crop quality. However, industry stakeholders remain optimistic about the season’s overall yield.
The sector expects a marketable crop between 96,000 and 104,000 tonnes, despite the weather challenges. So far, about 46% of the harvest has already been delivered to packers and exporters.
Last season’s production stood at 96,000 tonnes, and industry experts believe this year’s output will exceed 90,000 tonnes.
A key factor supporting growth is the expansion of raisin-producing land. Between 2020 and 2022, around 2,535 hectares of new vineyards were developed across the Orange River and Olifants River regions.
These new plantings are now in full production, adding approximately 17,000 tonnes to the industry’s total yield.
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