Boozing from home: Supermarkets not alone with increase in trade

Ainslie Cellars on Edgar Street and Jim Murphy's in Fyshwick and Majura Park all reported busier than usual weeks, with more people through the doors filling larger-than-usual orders.

Jim Murphy's owner Adrian Murphy said while there was an increase in foot traffic throughout the week, the big change had been in home delivery, with a spike in online ordering.

"Basket sizes have increased but it's not ridiculous, we're not seeing the panic buying we've seen at the supermarkets yet," Mr Murphy said.

"There's still plenty of booze to go around."

Mr Murphy said while customer sales had been better than usual, his restaurant and bar orders had taken a hit since the introduction of strict social distancing regulations.

Dan Murphy's and BWS stores in Canberra were also faring better than the city's bars and pubs, with operator Endeavour Drinks reporting "elevated customer demand".

A spokesperson for the liquor, hotel and gaming business which runs Woolworths' alcohol stores said the increased spending wasn't specific for beer, wine or spirits, with none likely to run out.

"Demand is spread broadly across our range of products and we do not anticipate any significant out-of-stock issues," the spokesperson said.

"We understand these are uncertain times where there can be comfort found in being prepared, however, we would encourage customers to purchase as they would normally, continue to drink responsibly and to please treat our team with courtesy and respect."

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Amid the stories of retailers feeling the loss as a consequence of self-isolation, customers had increased their purchases of office furniture at some of Canberra's biggest stores.

Officeworks acting managing director Michael Howard said its retailers across the country had seen a spike in technology and home-office product buys.

Mr Howard said items such as monitors, home printers, computer accessories, cables and sit-stand desks were among the sought-after items.

He said with an increased number of schools closed or about to close, Officeworks had also seen growth in the popularity of education resources as parents prepared for children being at home.

"Customers are also responding to an increased focus on hygiene and cleanliness, with strong demand across cleaning and sanitising products," Mr Howard said.

"We know we have an important role to play with essential products and services that will help customers in their daily lives - whether at home, school or work.

"For customers that can't head in-store and get what they need, we are doing everything we can to fulfil online orders."

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