Food retailers are increasing their stockpiles in anticipation of an upward surge in prices, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Supermarkets and their distributors are trying to stay ahead of inflation by buying up dry goods, commodities and other products before the prices go up much further. The CEO of Associated Wholesale Grocers, the nation’s largest wholesaler, told the Journal that his company is stockpiling up to 20% more inventory, mostly packaged shelf-stable goods.
SpartanNash, a grocery chain based in Michigan, has increased its inventory of boxed goods and frozen meats by up to 20%, and Ahold Delhaize USA, parent of Food Lion and Stop & Shop, is increasing the capacity of its warehouses.
The retailers are trying to cope with upward pressure on prices for meat, produce and many packaged goods. SpartanNash started stockpiling after more than 100 suppliers notified it of impending price increases.
