Dan Murphy’s stocks up after Covid-19 panic buying created booze shortage

Dan Murphy’s has warned of an alcohol shortage in coming months as locked down drinkers across the globe empty shelves to make their own cocktails.

The major beverage chain said it had changed its approach to supply since panic buying at the beginning of the lockdown left retailers with empty shelves.

But chief executive Steve Donohue said access to a number of overseas drinks and products remained uncertain.

“We have proactively allowed for more lead time when importing products to mitigate any potential supply chain delays,” he said in a statement provided to NCA NewsWire.

“There are also some stock constraints on imported liqueurs and certain spirits across the world, with many customers getting into making cocktails at home with bars and venues closed during lockdown.

“We don’t expect any major disruptions for customers leading into Christmas.

“If a customer temporarily can’t find their favourite imported drink, they will be able to find suitable alternatives in our stores.”

Endeavour Group, which operates Dan Murphy’s and a number of other beverage retailers, said it had filled its shelves with more than 500 locally sourced brands to boost the supply network.

“We have more Australian-made drinks than ever before in our stores, so we encourage customers to support Australian-made drinks leading up to Christmas,” Mr Donohue said.