Woolworths shortage: Why is there no fresh food at Queensland stores

Shoppers at some Woolworths stores in Queensland have become frustrated after supermarkets ran out of key items.

At several of the supermarket giant’s stores in Queensland, there is little to no stock available in the fresh produce sections, including milk, poultry and fruit.

While the reason behind the unavailability was initially unclear, Woolworths Chief Commercial Officer Paul Harker confirmed on Monday afternoon that an issue at a major distribution center was responsible.

It is understood an upgrade to the management system at the Brisbane site caused the cooling section to become damaged last week.

Mr Harker said the issue had caused a ‘carnage’.

Woolworths customers have described the shortages as ‘apocalyptic’, with several fresh food items running low

“We are not particularly happy with the situation,” Mr Harker said.

‘We are working very hard to improve it. We apologize to our customers for experiencing any issues.

“I might add that we will continue to take committed stock from our suppliers, even if we can’t get it out.”

The supermarket chain promised to work hard to ‘resume normal business operations as soon as possible’.

But the promise came too little, too late for many customers, who took to social media to express their frustrations.

‘Woolies is empty. This is a shame,” someone wrote on X, formerly Twitter, alongside photos of the local Woolworths department with products in short supply.

Another added: ‘Not sure what’s happening with Woolies but empty shelves happening in both Woolies Banyo and Woolies Nundah.’

Mr Harker said: “We are working very hard to improve it. We apologize to our customers that we have had any problems’

A third shopper wrote: ‘When I went to Woolies yesterday afternoon I wondered why the shelves are virtually empty…. The bread section was empty, the only gluten-free bread I found was outdated and old.’

‘Woolworths Richlands had ‘basically nothing’ in terms of fruit, vegetables and meats, according to a disappointed customer.

“I have noticed reduced options in and around the Moreton Bay area,” said another.

Another added: “No fresh chicken pieces, very little milk at Logan Hyperdome [Woolies] on Friday. Notices up and apologizes for the lack of stock due to delivery issues.’

A Woolworths spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia that grocers can ‘expect to see an improvement in overall supply levels over the coming days’.

A Woolworths spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia that customers can ‘expect to see an improvement in overall supply levels over the coming days’.

‘Some stores may have less fruit and vegetables, milk and chicken in stock than normal. There are no limits on product purchases,” they said.

“We are grateful for our customers’ patience and understanding as our team works to resume normal operations as soon as possible.”