EAST PROVIDENCE, RI – The City of East Providence, together with the Rhode Island Food Dealers Association, whose membership includes grocery retailers Stop & Shop, Shaw’s, ALDIs and PriceRite, as well as suppliers, wholesalers, distributors, brokers and manufacturers, are working to maintain order and thwart hoarding of essential supplies at local grocers.
East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva today announced that the City is working with local retailers to maintain order at local grocers and to remind the community that shelves are being restocked with essential goods.
“During this time of uncertainty, it is imperative that our community come together,” Mayor DaSilva said. “With that said, we need to be sure all East Providence families have the supplies that they need and in order to do that, we are asking residents to work with us and our retailers to have a safe and fair shopping experience.”
“Our member retailers are working hard to serve the customers of East Providence,” said Steven Arthurs, president and CEO of the Rhode Island Food Retailers Association. “Please be aware that the supply lines for grocers are in overall good shape and the supply of goods are moving from food manufacturers to wholesalers and suppliers and ultimately to your store shelves.
“There is no need to overbuy or hoard products,” he added. “As a critical industry our stores will remain open to serve you as we deal with the COVID-19 challenge.”
In order to maintain order at local grocers, the City has asked retailers to implement a policy to limit items that are in short supply to two.
Customers who attempt to checkout with more than the allowed items, will be asked to return the extra items. Those customers refusing to abide by the policy will be asked to leave.
“Working together to put limits in place will ensure that all customers have access to essential goods,” DaSilva said.
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