Supermarkets’ plea to shoppers: Don’t panic buy over fears of coronavirus

Supermarkets have appealed to shoppers not to panic buy over fears of coronavirus.

In an unprecedented move, 10 supermarket chains including Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Tesco and Asda have joined together to urge customers not to strip their shelves of essential items.

Shoppers concerned about having to self-isolate amid the spread of the disease have been emptying the shelves of goods ranging from soap, hand sanitiser and toilet roll to tea bags and UHT milk. Photographs taken in a number of supermarkets across Scotland showed empty shelves and barren freezer cabinets.

In a joint statement, the supermarkets said: “We would ask everyone to be considerate in the way they shop. We understand your concerns but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without. There is enough for everyone if we all work together.

“Together we can make sure we are looking out for family, friends, neighbours. Together we will care for those around us and those who are elderly, vulnerable or choosing to stay at home.

“We are doing all we can to rise to this challenge. Serving you and keeping you and everyone who works with us safe will always be our priority.”