Supermarkets given bold new plan to avert panic-buying amid supply shortage fears
Melbourne supermarkets have been given fresh reprieve by the state government amid fears reduced work hours at distribution centres will lead to food shortages and spark unruly behaviour among customers.
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Supermarkets have been given a reprieve by the state government which business chiefs are hopeful can avert supply shortages.
The industry had warned in crisis talks that it would be unable to keep up with consumer demand if it had to cut its workforce at distribution centres by a third.
But new guidance for the sector, published by the government on Thursday afternoon, says: “To provide flexibility, the number of workers can be reduced through any part of the supermarket business.”
The Herald Sun understands this could allow distribution centres to continue operating at close to full capacity, with staff in other parts of the business required to work from home.
Supermarket businesses will also be able to choose whether to base the 33 per cent cut on their workforce in July, or on any three-month period in the last year.
Daniel Andrews has also given the industry until Sunday night to make the changes, an extension of two days.
It is understood talks are underway to finalise how the rules will work, with supermarket businesses then having time to lock in their paperwork and COVID-safe plans with authorities.
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