Combating coronavirus: Switch from weekly to monthly shopping, UAE retailers tell residents

Residents should change their shopping habits from weekly to a monthly basis until the coronavirus pandemic lasts, according to one of the major retailers of the UAE.
Khalid Humaid bin Diban Al Falasi, chief executive of Union Coop, said this will help not only customers to ensure their own safety by reducing their number of visits to supermarkets but also help retailers and suppliers plan their purchases in terms of stock of goods. Al Falasi was speaking at a virtual Press conference to announce discounts during the holy month of Ramadan.
"We urge consumers to maintain monthly shopping as it is beneficial for the country in terms of containing the spread of the virus. It will allow retailers and suppliers to plan well in advance. It will also help consumers save money by benefiting from the discounts," said Al Falasi.
"Union Coop has 3,600 employees and we are monitoring them so that they don't get the virus. We separate them totally from suppliers," he said.
Dr Dhanajay Datar, managing director of Al Adil Group, said due to the movement restrictions, people have started consolidating their shopping behaviour.
"By visiting retail outlets less frequently, shoppers are not only protecting themselves, but also getting more value for their money by optimising their budget. As retailers, we will also be able to provide a safer shopping experience," said Datar.
"When we understand the shift in consumer buying behaviour, we are able to optimise our stocking pattern as well as provide value shopping experiences. On the whole, I feel the shift from weekly shopping to monthly shopping will be beneficial for all parties involved," said Datar.
Kamal Vachani, group director of Al Maya Group, said during the holy month of Ramadan, residents prefer staying at home and don't venture out much because they are fasting.
"This option (of monthly shopping) suits more people as majority in the country fasts in the holy month. Since restrictions on the movement of the people are in place, it is quite logical. We don't discourage monthly shopping option because we are well-stocked to meet the needs of our customers. In addition, social distancing norms are in place at Al Maya outlets and home delivery is also available," said Vachani.
waheedabbas@khaleejtimes.com