Supermarkets escape the worst effects of Covid during lockdown period

Lake Albert Foodworks owner Rod Porter has been inundated with shoppers since the lockdown was announced on Saturday.

"Saturday and Sunday were going gangbusters and it still carried over to Monday and today (Tuesday)," Mr Porter said.

"We went for two or three hours where there was a 50 metre queue outside on Saturday, but everybody was good and there was no suggestion of panic, they were respectful.

"It's starting to settle down a little bit now.

"It's not like last year when it first happened, then we were at it hammer and tongs.

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"There's not really been a trend with what people are buying not like last time with such things like pasta flours and toilet rolls, this time it's been across the board with a range of stuff."

Mr Porter has noticed a change in shopping habits.

"Last year everybody realised we'd still be open and had good supplies, so there was no issue really," he said.

"We get milk, bread and meat daily and none of those suppliers have told me they will have any issues getting them to us.

"Probably what we've found is that now people who used to come four or five times a week, just do a larger shop once a week now.

"That's good as they're doing the right thing and minimising movement and staying at home and trying to look after everyone.

"My message would be that if everyone does their regular shopping it'll be fine, just don't overstock your pantry."

One of the few business owners experiencing less of a dip in trade during lockdown, Mr Porter does have compassion for those not so lucky.

"We're dead-set really lucky to be in the right industry and remain open," he said.

"We're one of the few businesses that's an essential industry and we feel for other businesses that have closed or restricted trading.

"At the same time, we have to offer a community service and be open for people.

"Staff have been great, not one has raised any objections when they are potentially in the firing line."

Mr Porter remains positive that lockdown will be beneficial long-term, providing the government offers suitable assistance for struggling businesses struck by the impact of COVID.

"I can see both sides, there is a health issue but the economic impact has to be taken into consideration," he said.

"Hindsight is a great thing but maybe the NSW Government could've had a lockdown in the eastern Suburbs a bit quicker.

"The figures are not steeply rising now so there's a glimmer of hope that it's working.

"As long as we work together and minimise movement, lockdown will work and it'll be fine."

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