Coronavirus: East Providence, Local Retailers Deter Hoarding

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — East Providence has combined with the Rhode Island Food Dealers Association and suppliers to help keep important food and cleaning supplies on grocery store shelves amid the coronavirus pandemic. Grocery retailers, including Stop & Shop, Shaw's, ALDIs and PriceRite, as well as suppliers, wholesalers, distributors, brokers and manufacturers, are part of the agreement to help keep shelves stocked.

"During this time of uncertainty, it is imperative that our community come together," East Providence Mayor Robert DaSilva said. "With that said, we need to be sure all East Providence families have the supplies that they need and in order to do that, we are asking residents to work with us and our retailers to have a safe and fair shopping experience."

"Our member retailers are working hard to serve the customers of East Providence," said Steven Arthurs, president and CEO of the Rhode Island Food Retailers Association. "Please be aware that the supply lines for grocers are in overall good shape and the supply of goods are moving from food manufacturers to wholesalers and suppliers and ultimately to your store shelves.

"There is no need to overbuy or hoard products," he added. "As a critical industry our stores will remain open to serve you as we deal with the COVID-19 challenge."

Local grocers are asked to limit certain items to two per customers. Those who refuse to comply, or attempt to circumvent the request, will be asked to leave the store.

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