Background: Supply chains have been crunched thanks to the new Omicron wave. And it's meant that Woolies and Coles' distribution networks are being squeezed. Real hard.

What happened: For IGAs and other independent grocers, things haven't been so bad. There's still been some pandemic-related absenteeism...but for the most part, they haven't been impacted to the same extent.

What else: Because many independent grocers source their produce locally...they haven't been experiencing the same, long lead-times on stock. Big win for the little crew, hey?

So what's the key learning?

💡The length - or type - of a business' supply chain can drastically impact its success in times of distress (i.e. Omicron wave).

💡When it comes to supply chains, many companies rely on a global chain. This is where companies source their products and services from other countries. It might be because of lower labour rates, cheaper production costs...or you can only get the stock there. 

💡Other companies rely primarily on local supply chains - aka home grown suppliers. While this option can be more expensive, it also means you're a lot closer to your products. This means shorter lead times and lower risk of running out of certain stock. Onya IGA!