Heatwave leads to shortages for UK's shoppers
Empty shelves have been spotted across the country, after record temperatures led to fridges breaking down
Last updated 20th Jul 2022
Supermarket shoppers across the country have been left struggling to get fresh food and refrigerated and frozen goods due to this weekend's hot weather.
Signs have appeared in shops, including Tesco, Waitrose and Sainsbury's warning customers of shortages because of breakdowns.
One sign in a supermarket in Leeds said "due to a refrigeration break down we are currently experiencing, we do not have any fresh food".
"We are really sorry for any inconvenience caused and hope to have the issue resolved asap."
Tweets have also appeared online, showing other stores are facing similar issues.
One a photo from a Waitrose showed a sign that said "due to the excessive heat we have limited stock of some fresh. frozen and chilled products.
"We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause you".
Tesco's told us: "At the peak of this week’s hot weather, a number of stores experienced temporary issues with some of their freezer and refrigeration units.
"Where possible and safe to do so, stock was temporarily moved to the refrigeration units at the back area of the store while the units were fixed.
"We would not offer any food to our charities and community groups that was unfit for sale.
"Together with meals donated from our distribution centres we’re providing two million meals a month on average to around 5,700 charities and community groups. Since 2016 we’ve provided over 113 million meals."
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