Panic-buying strikes Spain’s Benalmádena after Spain’s “State of Alarm” declaration

Benalmádena has seen a wave of “panic-buying” this Friday. Empty freezers and gaping shelves met customers on Friday afternoon at the Mercadona. 

The news about Spain declaring “A State of Alarm” had barely broken, but people were already franticly stocking up on pasta, toilet paper and alcohol, as well as frozen and canned goods.

“I have never seen anything like it!” a customer says. “It felt like everyone was acting in a state of controlled panic as if they could snap at any time. I almost expected someone to come and challenge me over the last pack of butter on the shelf that I managed to snag!”

Spain’s government has assured that there is no shortage, that there is plenty of supply and that stores will be refilled every day. “Keep calm!” is the message. Apparently it’s easier said than done.

Photo: Elizabeth Sundlof 
Photo: Elizabeth Sundlof

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Henric Sundlof

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