Economists Say Supply Chain Issues Will Impact The Holidays

Economists told News On 6 that planning will be the key to a shopper's success this holiday season because the shelves are selling out quicker than retailers can stock them.

Experts said if there's an electronic device or 'in demand toy' you 'must' have, buy it now. The Christmas season is all about family gatherings, massive meals, and gift-giving. However, this year, it also means a lot of holiday stress.

Economists will tell you folks may have to adjust their Thanksgiving menus and Christmas lists because supply chain issues are the real Grinch this holiday season.

"This is a train wreck that's been emerging since the start of the pandemic," said Dr. Jon Shapiro, Professor of Marketing and International Business at Northeastern State University Broken Arrow.

Dr. Jon Shapiro said it's a snowball effect, from pent-up demand, on top of a lack of production and transportation and an increasing cost of fuel and goods. He also said many overseas factories were shut down due to Covid. Dr. Shapiro said there's major congestion at the ports because there's not enough staff to process containers and not enough truck drivers to make deliveries.

"We need leadership coming from public-private partnerships to figure out ways to make truck driving more attractive both in terms of conditions and pay and to coordinate ports better," said Dr. Shapiro.

There's also a 1.4% decrease in turkey production, and Dr. Shapiro said that many folks will bear the brunt of the small-bird shortage

"Overall, on average, there are smaller holiday gatherings, and groups of family and friends are smaller, post covid," said Dr. Shapiro.

Which is making it harder for The Salvation Army and other charities to help meet people's needs.

"We're saying we're giving out protein because we're thinking about what type of meat, we are able to find in a mass quantity and at a good price," said Captain Dan Nelson, Salvation Army Area Commander.

Nelson said The Salvation Army Tulsa Metro Area Command has more than 6,500 angels in this year's Angel Tree Program, which provides Christmas gifts for families. He said there are two online registry options through Amazon and Walmart.

"So, if there's something that becomes unavailable, we can quickly go in and switch items out and ultimately make it convenient for our shoppers," said Nelson.

The Salvation Army kicks off its Red Kettle and Angel Tree campaigns next week. Find more information about how to donate HERE