Mar 13, 2020
COVID-19 Challenges Supply Chain, but Reinforces Trading Partner Relationships


ARLINGTON, VA – As the food industry association – representing food retailers, wholesalers and suppliers of the food and consumer products they sell – FMI supports the President’s decision to declare a national emergency and garner appropriate resources to help feed and protect the nation against COVID-19 (coronavirus).

FMI President and CEO Leslie Sarasin said:

“With increasing uncertainty regarding COVID-19 in the U.S., shoppers seek to reestablish control of their environment – and our grocery supply chain is working to support that desire for stability through its adaptability, flexibility and resilience.

“Our industry has proven itself time after time in periods of emergency, as evidenced by its strength and confidence in the ability to meet the needs of the communities it serves, no matter the circumstance. This fortitude is due to our strong public-private partnerships with government agencies to ensure our supply chain remains both nimble and effective.

“We live in a global economy, which is evident every day in the aisles of a grocery store. As this situation progresses, the grocery supply chain will be tested, but built-in efficiencies, strong trading partner relationships, nimble technology and service relationships, and genuine concern for our customers will be manifested in the resilience of this supply chain.”