Supply chain issues impacting shoppers ahead of the big game

 

SOUTH BEND, Ind. ---The big game is quickly approaching and for many that means fans, friends, and of course food, but will supply chain issues get in the way of some of your Sunday snack plans?

Shoppers ABC57 spoke with and the owner of a local butcher shop said with the pandemic leading to supply chain issues they’re planning in advance for the busy weekend ahead.

“We have had many customers come in for chicken wings baby back ribs, steak burgers and our bratwurst,” said Nick St. Clair the Owner of St. Clair’s Butcher Shop on Edison Road in South Bend.

The new meat store opened amid the pandemic and St. Clair said since opening they’ve experienced supply chain impacts first hand, with a big impact on chicken wings, the appetizer expected to be a fan favorite for the big game this weekend.

“The supply chain issues certainly have caused an increase in our costs in turn increases our retails,” said St. Clair. “Chicken wings are on sale this week for $3.99 there’s about eight per pound, it’s a pretty aggressive price for the market.”

But some shoppers told ABC57 wings are among other things that have been hard to come by at bigger grocery stores, with some shelves virtually empty.

“I went down the chip aisle and it’s practically bare, the pop and everything is very picked over,” explained local shopper Debbie Bonner.

It's not only the biggest sports weekend of the year, it’s Valentine’s weekend, too, and shoppers are being encouraged to stock up now, before it’s too late.

“Get here early because there is a chance a lot of places will be running out,” said St. Clair. “We stocked way up for Super Bowl, chicken wings, baby back ribs and all steaks.”

“I’m about to go and get me some meat, some ribs, and have a nice super bowl party,” added shopper Tom Call.

Among other things experts predict Americans nationwide will consume more than 1.4 billion chicken wings for the big game this Sunday!