Statement from FMI President and CEO Leslie Sarasin on the Port Strikes’ Impact on the Food Supply Chain

Arlington, Va.- "Shoppers may be worried about their grocery needs due to the ongoing strike by the International Longshoremen's Association at East and Gulf Coast ports, which has been compounded in the Southeastern United States by the effects of Hurricane Helene. We encourage consumers to shop thoughtfully and to purchase only those items needed in the near-term for their families to preserve access for others in our communities. The supply chain is resilient and adaptable, and the grocery industry is taking all necessary measures to ensure household needs are met.

"Americans can have confidence in the food and product supply in this country. Most grocery store items, including paper products, are domestically produced and, therefore, are not directly affected by the current ports strikes. If the situation at the ports is not resolved in a reasonable amount of time, certain products that are imported at this time of year, such as some tropical fruits, may experience out-of-stock issues due to increased demand. Shoppers may need to be flexible if their favorite imported products are temporarily unavailable but know that alternative options are on the shelves.

"All customers should rest assured that their stores and the manufacturers who produce the products are on their side and committed to serving them regardless of the challenges. As we witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic, when times get tough, the entire food industry rises to the occasion by delivering food, water, and other essential supplies to our communities.

"Whether confronting a national disaster or a supply chain disruption like the current strike at U.S. ports, the food industry remains dedicated to caring for customers and communities."