As Tropical Cyclone Alfred brings heavy rainfall and flooding to Queensland and northern NSW, retailers are adjusting operations to protect their teams, customers, and stores.
Thousands of homes in southeast Queensland and northern NSW have already lost power as strong winds and heavy rain from the approaching storm swept across the coastline, impacting areas both north and south of Brisbane. Airlines suspended operations at Brisbane Airport until at least midday Saturday and domestic services until at least Sunday morning. Flights have also been suspended at Gold Coast Airport.
Some businesses in high-risk areas have temporarily closed, while essential retailers continue operating where conditions allow. However, staff shortages and supply chain disruptions remain a challenge.
The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and the National Retail Association (NRA) have urged customers to remain patient with retail workers navigating challenging circumstances.
“Our hearts go out to all Australians affected by this extreme weather event,” said ARA chief industry affairs officer Fleur Brown.
“Retailers and their teams are on the frontlines of this crisis, focused on supporting the community. We are grateful for the efforts of essential retailers, from delivering extra supplies to assisting SES activities and evacuation centres.”
Meanwhile, NRA interim CEO Lindsay Carroll emphasised that retail workers are part of the affected communities and called for empathy.
“The person serving you in a store is likely to be personally impacted by the cyclone and flooding,” said Carroll.
“We urge patience and respect towards retail teams as they work to provide essential services.”
Despite reports of panic buying and empty shelves in the lead-up to the cyclone, Coles has reassured customers that stock levels remain strong.
“We have substantial amounts of stock in Queensland,” Coles state GM Joanne Brown told ABC Radio Brisbane. “In Redbank, we have one of the most modern distribution systems in the Southern Hemisphere. It can supply other states, and we don’t even blink.”
Customers are advised to check retailers’ websites for real-time updates as well as emergency alerts from state authorities.
