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Michigan Retailers Association warns against 'panic shopping,' urges residents to 'Shop as Normal' amid the pandemic

Posted at 7:30 PM, Nov 23, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-23 22:13:26-05

(WXYZ) — Michiganders should not be over shopping during the pandemic, according to warnings from the Michigan Retailers Association. In a new campaign, in partnership with Meijer and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, consumers are being urged to "Shop as Normal" during these times so that everyone can have an ample supply of needed items.

“Michigan has an ample supply of food products and other items. But, when shoppers panic buy products like toilet paper, paper towel and other items, it creates a ripple effect within the supply chain,” said Gary McDowell, director of MDARD. “Buying what your household will use for the week keeps the supply chain moving, ensures everyone has access to what they need and allows the stores to replenish shelves for your next shopping trip.”

People have been panic shopping, especially ahead of the holidays. The Michigan Retailers Association is asking people to limit purchases to a week's worth of supply.

“Retailers across the state continue to work hard to restore and maintain product levels in stores to meet the demand in communities,” said William Hallan, president and CEO of the Michigan Retailers Association. “Consumers need to know that stores, particularly grocery stores, will remain open. Consumers should plan for essentials in weekly increments to ensure that supply levels remain steady over the next few weeks. As retailers continue to do their part to keep retail environments safe to shop, we are asking consumers to do their part by limiting quantities to ensure there is enough for everyone.”

Additional Coronavirus information and resources:

Click here for a page with resources including a COVID-19 overview from the CDC, details on cases in Michigan, a timeline of Governor Gretchen Whitmer's orders since the outbreak, coronavirus' impact on Southeast Michigan, and links to more information from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the CDC and the WHO.

View a global coronavirus tracker with data from Johns Hopkins University.

See complete coverage on our Coronavirus Continuing Coverage page.

Visit our The Rebound Detroit, a place where we are working to help people impacted financially from the coronavirus. We have all the information on everything available to help you through this crisis and how to access it.