The convenience industry has voiced its support for the measures being taken by the government in addressing the current challenges, but is seeking clarity in some critical areas.
According to Australasian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) CEO, Jeff Rogut, convenience stores are currently busy planning for the short and long term, not only in terms of protecting their own businesses, but also serving their communities and customers in the challenging times coming. They are carefully managing staff rostering and preparing for potential worker shortages, fuel scheduling requirements and inventory control.
“Given the increased need for supplies at the local level, peoples’ hesitation to visit larger centres, as well as the need for fuel for emergency vehicles, among other reasons, we believe there is a case for convenience stores including service stations to be declared as essential services,” Rogut said. “To this end we’ve written to Government to understand how our industry can provide greater assistance and support to its initiatives so that if and when circumstances are required to change, we can adapt accordingly for our customers.
“Convenience stores are local places for people to buy milk, bread, food and beverages, and other essential items. We want to continue to be able to do this in the most convenient way possible, and this means keeping as many stores trading for longer hours as possible,” Rogut stressed.
Rogut highlighted measures that, with Government support, will help convenience stores play their part in the most effective way.
“The granting of temporary work visas to counter anticipated front-line worker shortages and extended deliveries for critical truck supplies including fuel transports, could be proactively considered to support the convenience industry as people shy away from major shopping centres,” Rogut said.
“We saw during the bushfire crisis in January that the closure of retail fuel outlets has a significant impact on the community with people left lining up for hours to purchase fuel. We have a chance to learn some key lessons here to help us through the coming challenges.”
Rogut pointed out that the US government has reacted to the Coronavirus crisis by temporarily suspending laws for truck drivers that oversee hours-of-service, effectively waiving the normal rest break laws for drivers supplying critical food and medical supplies.
Rogut said that similar measures would make sense in Australia – adding that he believes fuel deliveries should be added to food and medical supplies as an emergency supply – without compromising safety.
“The AACS recognises and thanks our industry operators and the front-line staff who continue to work serving their customers and communities in these challenging times,” Rogut concluded.