Grocery stores get ready for onslaught

If you’re running to the grocery store today or tomorrow for eggs or sour cream, you’re not alone.

As some businesses are closing up for the holiday, grocery stores are bracing themselves for the big rush.

At Food Lion on Godwin Boulevard, assistant store manager Justin Ellis said, some customers will come in today looking for things they forgot to pick up. Other customers will be gathering everything they need for the big meal.

“The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is one of our busiest days of the year,” he said. “A lot of times people wait until the last minute. It’s usually pretty busy on Thanksgiving until we close (at 3 p.m.).”

By that time, most people have picked up the turkey or ham but some will have forgotten to get all the ingredients for their side dishes or desserts.

Ellis said a lot of people come in the day before Thanksgiving to pick up canned goods and desserts, as well as toppings, such as French fried onions, sour cream and whipped cream.

“We get a lot of milk and egg sales, as well,” he said.

Additionally, Ellis said, people buy pre-made desserts from the bakery department so they don’t have to bake it themselves.

But it isn’t just food products people are looking for before the feast begins.

Ellis said customers often come in at the last minute, usually on Thanksgiving Day, to buy disposable plates and utensils.

“They buy paper plates, napkins, utensils and trays,” he said.

Ellis said Food Lion has been preparing for Thanksgiving since last month.

“We start preparing in late October doing our merchandising and getting products placed,” he said. “You don’t want to be stuck with holiday product, but you also don’t want to run out.”

As for the shoppers who are out today and tomorrow, Ellis encourages everyone to “try to enjoy shopping and try to be patient.”

“Our busy aisles and the meat counter are going to be slam-packed,” he said. “We’re trying to do the best we can for our customers, so they can have a great Thanksgiving.”