Woolworths has closed nine of its supermarkets in Ipswich and Brisbane as a result of the devastating floods, amid a fresh food shortage across Queensland.
The supermarket chain said building damages were minimal, however its stores were forced to shut down because of road closures, supply issues and staff shortages.
Woolworths said they were working with other major retailers and the Queensland Government on contingency measures to maintain fresh food supplies to communities across the State.
Logistics
Woolworths said the major challenge was the delivery of stock throughout Queensland: Mount Isa and Cloncurry will now be serviced via Adelaide and Tennant Creek, while Weipa will be serviced by barge from Darwin. All other stores to the north and west of Gympie are only receiving sporadic deliveries.
Coastal shipping options are limited given the closure of the Port of Brisbane.
Woolworths is working with the Queensland Government and other major retailers to assess opportunities to airlift emergency supplies into areas where stock levels are low.
The majority of Brisbane metro stores continue to receive daily deliveries.
Food prices
A number of fruit and vegetable lines have been affected by flooding. Woolworths has advised that food prices should not be impacted in the short-term, however, there could be supply challenges in April and May when the Queensland produce season recommences.
Woolworths has said it will not raise any prices to offset the increased freight costs resulting from the floods.