Nielsen research shows that – “Australian consumers are actively stockpiling grocery and medical items as concerns grow around the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) becoming a worldwide pandemic. Stocks of hand sanitisers, medical face masks and toilet paper have already dried up in some stores, with no clear indication of when supplies will be replenished.
In doing so, Australia is following in the footsteps of countries including China, the U.S. and Italy, where Nielsen research found significant spikes in the hoarding of emergency and essential supplies as consumers rush to build “pandemic pantries.” They’re also following an early trend we’re seeing out of China to head online for the supplies they’re seeking.”