Dan Murphy’s limit shoppers to 12 bottle of French champagne as Covid-19 disrupts supply chains

Australians could be in for a not so silly festive season as the global Covid-19 pandemic causes chaos for alcohol supply chains.

Popular Aussie liquor store Dan Murphy’s has already had to limit shoppers buying French champagne to 12 bottles per person.

The low stock of booze around the world is a combination of the pandemic, bad weather of frost and rain, and the decision to reduce the amount of grapes from France used to make champagne in 2020 when demand initially fell.

But as millions were confined to their homes, the demand for a bottle of something to cure the boredom quickly rose.

The CEO of Adelaide-based Accolade Wines Robert Foye said while there was Australian wine ready to be bought, shoppers would likely see the impacts from overseas shipping delays. 

‘There continues to be significant concerns over cost, frequency, and availability of sea freight around the globe affecting everything from the availability of wine through to the packaging that is used to transport products across the world,’ he told news.com.au.

Shoppers are seen stocking up on booze ahead of one of Melbourne’s lockdowns this year

‘The impact of these global shipping delays means Australians could see a shortage of alcohol on shelves this festive season and there have also been reports of issues impacting Champagne supply for Australians.’

However, despite Dan Murphy’s bringing in some product restrictions, the alcohol retailer has assured shoppers there will be enough stock in time for Christmas. 

‘We are seeing some supply chain constraints due to the pandemic, but we have worked closely with our supply partners since the first lockdowns of 2020 to keep stock on shelves and we continue to do so,’ a spokesperson for Endeavour Group, which owns Dan Murphy’s said.

‘We have implemented mitigation strategies in the way we manage our supply chain logistics to ensure more lead time when importing products.

‘While there are some stock constraints on imported products, namely liqueurs and certain spirits, as well as some Champagne brands, we don’t expect any major disruptions for customers leading into Christmas.’

In October Chief executive Steve Donohue said sourcing issues have been exacerbated as Australians celebrating coming out of lockdown empty shelves.

‘We have proactively allowed for more lead time when importing products to mitigate any potential supply chain delays,’ he said.

‘There are also some stock constraints on imported liqueurs and certain spirits across the world, with many customers getting into making cocktails at home with bars and venues closed during lockdown.

‘If a customer temporarily can’t find their favourite imported drink, they will be able to find suitable alternatives in our stores.’ 

Popular Aussie liquor store Dan Murphy’s has already had to limit shoppers buying French champagne to 12 bottles per person (stock image)