Supermarkets prepare for major disasters amidst growing uncertainty
NL TimesSupermarkets and essential retail outlets in the Netherlands are preparing for potential large-scale crises, including power outages, climate-related disasters, or war. Patricia Hoogstraaten, a spokesperson for Vakcentum, a trade association for independent retailers, stressed that while short-term solutions are achievable, long-term large-scale disruptions could require joint efforts with government agencies. Hoogstraaten noted, “We never really planned for these kinds of events, but now we need to create scripts that will allow us to make the right agreements.” While emergency planning is not new, the scale and severity of potential crises require more proactive measures. Banks have recommended that households keep cash on hand, and former Prime Minister Mark Rutte, now NATO chief, advised citizens to adopt a "wartime mentality" in preparation for potential conflict.