What can we learn from the supermarket supply chain issues that have emerged with the spread of Omicron?

Shoppers go about their business at Preston Market, Melbourne.

Why do traditional markets seem to be less affected by stock shortages at the minute? Source: By avlxyz/Creative Commonsy

The continuing surge in Covid-19 cases has affected the availability of goods in supermarkets. Chicken, meat and other goods have been in short supply. However, this seems to be less of a problem in traditional markets. Could the nature of the supermarkets’ supply chain be part of the problem?


Daniel Prajogo is a specialist in the economics of supply chains.  He is a Professor in the Department of Management at the Monash University Business School.  He explains to Sri Dean that the orientation of the supermarkets’ supply chains have some benefits, but can also leave the supermarkets vulnerable at a time like this.
And you can keep abreast of the latest information about the corona virus in your language at sbs.com.au/coronavirus
Roast chicken - Chicken is the favourite meat across diverse communities.
Chicken is the favourite meat across diverse communities in Australia but has been in short supply in supermarkets. How long will the shortages continue? Source: By Alesis/Creative Commons

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