Coronavirus in UAE: Residents resort to online shopping instead of visiting stores

Coronavirus in UAE: Residents resort to online shopping instead of visiting stores

�Heightened concerns about the growing number of coronavirus (Covid-19) cases have resulted in a spike in online orders from pharmacies as well as door deliveries from restaurants.. Speaking to Khaleej Times, Michael Thomas, partner, Health Practice, Kearney, noted that the virus is having a "major" impact on pharmacy and retail supply chains.. "Not surprisingly face masks, hand sanitisers and disinfectants have seen an immediate surge in demand and outright stock-outs in major on and off-line channels, not only in directly affected countries but well beyond," he said.. "Where stocks exist, they are frequently subject to a surge in pricing.". What is beginning to emerge, he explained, is a more generalised impact on retail behaviour.. The concern of contracting the disease has led to people avoiding public spaces and gatherings, which is driving more home consumption. ". Looking to the future, he said that further disruption can be expected as the full impact of the manufacturing slow-down and shut-downs are felt across global supply chains.. "Now that new reported cases outside of China exceed those within China, the impact on supply chains will become even more global.. Many countries, like China, South Korea, Italy and France, are already implementing or considering