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Coles introduces further grocery restrictions after confirmed COVID-19 cases lead to distribution issues

Coles has introduced additional product limits across its Victorian and Tasmanian stores as its only Victorian chilled distribution centre is forced to operate with reduced staff due to at least six confirmed COVID-19 cases at the facility.

In a statement released by Coles, the supermarket giant has confirmed that following a number of team members at its Laverton chilled distribution centre in Victoria returning positive COVID-19 tests, it is working with the Department of Health and Human Services to have all workers employed at the facility tested for COVID.

While the Laverton distribution centre has been able to maintain operations, the reduced number of available team members has temporarily impacted Coles’ ability to replenish its Victorian stores with chilled and fresh produce lines.

The Victorian Government is working with Coles to ensure the distribution centre can remain open and keep food on shelves.

Coles has also worked with the Victorian Health Department to conduct contact tracing for positive cases, and as a further precautionary measure a significant proportion of team members at the Laverton distribution centre have been asked to self-isolate at home.

“Our supply chain team has put in place a number of contingency measures, including re-routing some stock through Coles distribution centres in other states, introducing pop-up distribution centres in Victoria, and working with some suppliers to deliver products direct to our Victorian stores,” a Coles spokesperson said.

Coles says it has extensive safety protocols in place at the Laverton distribution centre which comply with government guidelines, and the facility has been deep cleaned daily over the past week.

The new purchasing limits include Fresh Milk, Cheese, Chicken, Frozen Fruit and Veg and some prepacked vegetables.

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