March 12 2019

Foster’s reassures customers that panic-buying is not necessary.

Since the rapid spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the classification of the virus as a pandemic by the World Health Organization, panic-buying has ensued, globally. While no cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the Cayman Islands to date, people have been stocking up on disinfectant items in an effort to keep their families safe.

Recently, photos and video have been spread on social media of empty shelves at our Foster’s Supermarket and Priced Right locations. While we may be temporarily out of stock on certain high-demand items, we are working with our suppliers to bump-up orders and purchase what is available while searching for new sources and product alternatives where needed. “Our purchasing team is working to increase orders on high-demand products and get them on island as quickly as possible” says Marketing Senior Manager Julian Foster. “We are, however, experiencing some temporary shortages on health and sanitation products like face masks, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes and sprays, and isopropyl alcohol, among other products, which are in high demand around the world. During these unprecedented times, manufacturers and suppliers are working to ramp up production and ordering to ensure product is available.”

Because of this, product limits have been placed on disinfecting products, bleach and vinegar. The limits, ranging from 1-4 products per person, per SKU, are clearly marked on store shelves. The full list of products can be found on our website – https://fosters.ky/cov-product-limit/. Updates to the product list will be made on this site should changes occur and the information will be shared on social media.

Customers are encouraged to take steps to practice infection control measures by:

• Frequently washing hands for a minimum of 20 seconds with warm water and soap
• Covering nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Avoiding close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections
• Staying well-hydrated throughout the day (as a reminder, Cayman’s tap water is 100% safe to drink)

“We are fully stocked on food items and have been assured that our suppliers, both locally and overseas, have product on hand to ship” says Managing Director, Woody Foster. “Our warehouse is fully stocked, and while we may still see temporary out of stocks on products, we’ve increased orders where we need to on critical, shelf stable products”. While the uncertainty around COVID-19 remains, customers can rest assured that both Foster’s Supermarkets and Priced Right locations are taking action to keep shelves stocked and stores clean for customers.

Foster’s is committed to providing the best service possible, and is in regular contact with local police, port and government authorities as we all work through this dynamic and unique period. We ask that the community remain calm, think rationally and use proper hygiene practices throughout the day.

Customers with questions on product availability can speak to team members in store, email [email protected], or contact us on Foster’s’ and Priced Right’s social media channels (@fosterscayman & @pricedrightcayman).

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