Major supermarkets in flood-affected parts of New South Wales are still grappling with significant disruptions to fresh produce supplies, as damaged roads and limited access continue to pressure supply chains.
In Kempsey, both Coles and Woolworths remain closed, impacting the local availability of fresh fruits and vegetables. Coles has also confirmed that its Wingham store remains shut, while Woolworths said its Kempsey location will remain closed for the weekend. The closures are contributing to noticeable gaps in fresh produce supply for residents in the region.
Coles stated that while most of its stores in NSW remain open and stocked, deliveries are being prioritised to flood-impacted communities. The retailer emphasised efforts to resume regular deliveries of essential goods like fresh fruits and vegetables. "Our teams are working hard to ensure we have extra food deliveries on their way to our stores," a Coles spokesperson said.
Woolworths noted that restocking efforts are underway in affected areas, but warned that some stores may still see reduced availability of perishable items such as fresh vegetables and fruit. The Woolworths store in Macksville reopened on Saturday afternoon, but some departments, including produce, are still awaiting full restock, with fresh shipments expected to resume on Sunday morning.
Farmers and local suppliers have also been affected. Kempsey café owner Mouy Diep reopened her business as soon as power was restored, facing a surge of customers in need of meals, many of whom rely on fresh vegetables. She noted that while her café experienced minor water damage, the loss of power and delivery disruptions posed bigger challenges for sourcing fresh produce.
Transport infrastructure is slowly recovering. The Pacific Highway near Taree, a key freight route, was fully reopened on Sunday morning after floodwaters receded. Authorities have urged drivers to slow down as crews continue to work along the highway's shoulders to ensure safety. This reopening is expected to gradually ease logistical challenges for fruit and vegetable distribution across the region.
Transport for NSW has activated its Freight Supply Chain Group to provide industry stakeholders, including supermarkets and fresh produce distributors, with daily updates on road and rail conditions. The priority now is to resume the timely delivery of fruit and vegetable supplies to communities still affected by the floods.
As recovery begins, supermarket chains and local producers are working together to stabilise the fresh produce supply chain. However, officials warn that shortages may persist in some areas until road access is fully restored and stock levels are replenished. With more weather instability forecast, continued coordination between government and industry will be critical to maintaining consistent access to fruit and vegetables across the region.
Source: ABC News
