Trying Local, Independent Stores First
Although you may be tempted to skip the smaller, independent essential businesses in favor of larger chains (most likely because you assume the larger stores will be better stocked), it might be time to rethink that.
According to CNN Business, "[G]rocery owners and experts say the coronavirus crisis has led many customers to rediscover their local grocery stores. Some shoppers are turning to local grocers because items they are looking for are out of stock at big box chains. Others are shopping at their local stores to stay closer to home and avoid large crowds."
The article continues, quoting Chet Davis, owner of Chet's Foods in Kingsley, Iowa, "We're not as crowded as the big chain stores. There are no people elbow to elbow as you're shopping."
Many independent stores are also now offering the same safety precautions (and, in some cases, more safety precautions) as their competition, including curbside pickup, delivery, and shopping hours dedicated to high risk customers.
Plus, smaller businesses might be more likely to answer their phones, making it easier for you to plan your shopping trip if you are concerned about product availability. Many of them have also opened online stores as well.
With that in mind, if you are struggling to find what you need at your favorite grocery chain, expanding your search to include smaller businesses could help keep you safe when running errands.