Like most Australian businesses at present, the Australian chicken meat industry is facing significant pressure from critical staff shortages across the supply chain due to COVID.
As a result, the broad range and type of chicken meat products available in store and through food outlets has changed, with a number of products continuing to be in short supply. Products that are the most challenging to supply to all our customers are those that require most preparation or are the most labour intensive to produce, such as cut-up, de-boned, skinless, and value-added products. Simpler, less labour-intensive products such as whole chicken should continue to be available, although supply is still not guaranteed in all stores at all times. Any shortfall in availability of whole chickens is likely to be short term.
Executive Director, Dr Vivien Kite says, “The Australian chicken meat industry is working really hard to overcome the issues created by these staff shortages. Staffing problems continue to be experienced across the supply chain, and this affects our ability to deliver a reliable and regular supply of chicken products to each and every customer.
“We apologise to all our customers who have been unable to buy the products they want, and we ask for patience and understanding. We are doing our best to meet demand. It is a difficult time for everyone – farmers, chicken companies and all businesses in the chicken supply chain as well as our valued customers.
“We look forward to getting back to doing what we do best – delivering a stable supply of Australia’s favourite meat”, says Dr Kite.
