Elderly people and anyone with disabilities will have a dedicated hour of shopping first thing in the morning to ensure they have access to necessities.
Woolworths Supermarkets, including the shop based at Tamworth Shopping World, are introducing temporary measures across its stores from Tuesday until at least Friday, where they will be opening exclusively for the elderly and those with a disability to shop from 7am to 8am, where permitted.
The move has been prompted by the unprecedented demand in supermarkets over the past week, which has seen many elderly and vulnerable people in the community missing out on essential items they may need when they shop.
Access to the store before this time will require a relevant Government issued concession card.
Woolworths Supermarkets managing director Claire Peters said while they will continue to do their best to restock stores during this period of unprecedented demand, she knows many elderly customers have been missing out on essential items when they shop.
"This temporary measure will give them, and those with a disability, the opportunity to shop before our stores officially open - helping them obtain the essential items they need most in a less crowded environment," she said.
"We continue to encourage all Australians to be mindful of those in our communities who might need extra help at this time. Now - more than ever - we need to be kind to each other, especially to those most vulnerable.
"We'd like to thank our customers for their patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused by the revised opening hours."