Amazon warns of delivery delays, running out of items

Amazon warned of delayed deliveries and items going out of stock as the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread.

The online retailer said the increase in people shopping online is having a short-term impact on how it serves customers. 

“In particular, you will notice that we are currently out of stock on some popular brands and items, especially in household staples categories,” Amazon said in a blog post updated Saturday. 

The retailer added that promised deliveries will take longer than usual. 

“We are working around the clock with our selling partners to ensure availability on all of our products, and bring on additional capacity to deliver all of your orders,” the post added. 

Amazon included a note at the top of its website telling customers “inventory and delivery may be temporarily unavailable due to increased demand. Confirm availability at checkout.”

Items such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer and hand soap were listed as out of stock on the website Sunday. 

The outbreak also has also reportedly left the shelves of brick-and-mortar stores across the nation bare. 

President Trump had a call with executives from more than two dozen grocery stores Sunday.

The executive are working with federal and state and local leaders to ensure food and essentials are constantly available, White House spokesperson Judd Deere said in a statement. 

“The President reminded the participants that this is an all-of-America approach and each of their stores and the stores they support can help Americans feel calm and safe when shelves are stocked with the items they need,” Deere added.

“Supply chains in the United States are strong, and it is unnecessary for the American public to hoard daily essentials. The President thanked the executives for their close partnership and pledged to stay in close communication,” he added.