Now that coronavirus is kinda here to stay, panic buying has become a norm for folks in countries reporting cases. Those that had a test of what coronavirus can do to a routine will tell you a different story, as a majority are slowly turning to alcohol to brighten their days. In a majority of countries affected by the virus, bars, pubs, restaurants have been shut down to prevent the spread of the virus.
According to recent data by the Australian government, one in six adults drinks more than the recommended daily maximum, following the closure of pubs amind COVID-19 infection. Australian retailers have now been forced to ration alcohol as consumers have shifted their attention from toilet papers and other household essentials to booze. Retail giant Woolworths Group Ltd among others have agreed to limit sales of alcohol for each shopper after social distancing measures which forced people to stay at home spiked alcohol purchases.
“Uncertainty on the impact of supply following the closure of pubs, clubs and restaurants last week caused some people to purchase differently. These temporary measures will ensure that all consumers can continue to access their favourite drinks when they decide to make a purchase,” noted the CEO of industry group Retail Drinks Australia.
According to Commonwealth Bank of Australia, towards the end of March, netizens spending in liquor shops was up 86% on the same period a year earlier, and even after the shutdown, alcohol spending still went up. Australia has reported over 5000 cases of the virus with at least 20 dead.
