Co-op has resolved all fridge and freezer issues in its Channel Islands stores after a heatwave caused about 10 units to break down. The supermarket chain is now developing plans to help its infrastructure cope with high temperatures in the future.
Heatwave impact
The UK has experienced repeated heatwaves this summer, with both Jersey and Guernsey seeing their warmest Julys since records began. The Channel Islands' Co-op said the issue was due to "exceptionally hot weather."
Chief executive Mark Cox said on BBC Radio Jersey that about 10 frozen food and refrigeration units in stores across Jersey and Guernsey had broken down in the heat in recent weeks. He noted the challenges have not been unique.
Response and resolution
Mr Cox said whenever issues arose, Co-op's "priority has been to act quickly to protect food safety and minimise disruption." All issues have now been resolved.
"Certainly through our infrastructure, with refrigeration and frozen food, that heat has meant that equipment has been working really hard over that period," he said. "I think we've probably had across our store estate 10 units out of action, whether that be frozen food case or a refrigeration case - as we stand today we don't have any issues."
Minimal losses and future plans
Product loss had been "very small" as a result of the breakdowns, and staff worked quickly to avoid food waste. Mr Cox expects to see "an improving situation" as temperatures start to cool in the coming weeks.
Co-op is developing plans to ensure its infrastructure could cope with high temperatures in the future.
