Crisps are being listed for at least ten times their original value online as supermarkets run out of Walkers packets.
The manufacturer’s Leicester factory, which can produce up to five million bags a day, had to slow production last month after a botched computer upgrade.
A spokesperson said “niche” varieties had been hit as Walkers prioritised mainstream flavours like ready salted, cheese and onion, and salt and vinegar.
“We’re doing everything we can to increase production and get people’s favourites back on shelves,” they said.
READ MORE: PepsiCo upgrades Leicester distribution centre with £14 million investment
However, shelves have emptied as shoppers turned to the remaining flavours and brands.
“WHERE ARE ALL THE CRISPS @asda?” one Twitter user asked.
Another said “someone needs to warn @GaryLineker” that there’s a “distinct shortage of Walkers crisps”.
One Asda customer claimed they had “not been able to get ordinary Walkers crisps… for two weeks”.
I was in Asda yesterday and Booker cash and carry and there’s a distinct shortage of Walkers crisps so there’s a good chance that’s the next panic buy. Someone needs to warn @GaryLineker
— Jonny Stukka (@JStukka) November 6, 2021
WHERE ARE ALL THE CRISPS @asda ??? pic.twitter.com/HQbbtQI20C
— Kaztronomy (@Kaztronomy) November 6, 2021
Becoming increasingly desperate, some people resorted to touring around different shops.
“Been to Asda and Sainsbury’s, no crisps!” said a shopper.
One main lamented: “It’s a sad sight when you go to three supermarkets and see no Walkers crisps.”
It’s a sad sight when you go to three supermarkets and see no walkers crisps you want.. @sainsburys @asda @Tesco …@walkers_crisps can we have some of your crisps in shops please. pic.twitter.com/hUhcqrMcfC
— Chris Martin (@ChristofMartin) November 2, 2021
A number of eBay sellers have tried to take advantage of the demand by massively inflating the prices of single packets.
One account, claiming to provide food at “rock bottom prices”, listed a bag of salt and vinegar crisps at £6.89.
Another is attempting to sell a large packet of Walker Squares for £7.89.
However, most of the items sold on the platform are more reasonable and closer to supermarket prices.
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