Supply chain disruptions hit SA traders because of coronavirus

JOHANNESBURG – South African retailers have warned of supply disruptions to imported stocks amid the coronavirus pandemic wreaking havoc across global markets.

South Africa reported 61 cases of coronavirus yesterday, and the number was expected to escalate.

South African retailers said they had taken steps to manage the impact of the coronavirus.

Woolworths, one of South Africa’s biggest food and clothing retailers, on Friday reiterated a warning from earlier this year that some of its stock would be impacted in the coming weeks.

“We anticipate that the extended Chinese New Year may create a delay in stock availability in certain clothing product categories. However, we are actively putting in place various plans to mitigate this risk,” said Woolworths, which operates in South Africa and Australia.