Don’t ask for extra sauce next time you pick up something at Chick-Fil-A. The answer probably will be no.
The restaurant chain said Wednesday it is experiencing a shortage of some items at its stores, including sauce, due to supply chain issues.
“Due to industrywide supply chain shortages, some items, like sauces, may be unavailable. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience,” a short notification on the company’s website read.
An email sent to customers further clarified that the company will now be limiting what it gives out to one sauce per entree, two per meal, and three per 30-count nuggets. (Retail bottles of the sauce do not appear to be affected.)
Beyond its sauce problem, Chick-Fil-A and other restaurants are dealing with a ketchup shortage as Heinz is unable to keep up with demand. Packet prices are up 13% since January 2020.
Supply chain issues are starting to affect several industries. The Biden administration is hoping to address weaknesses in the industry via broader structural reforms which will both reduce supply chain risks and slow or reverse manufacturing job losses longer-term, a process known as “reshoring,” by making manufacturing in the U.S. More attractive.
Restaurants are facing a double-whammy of issues as communities begin to open up. Beyond supply chain issues, many are having trouble attracting workers, which impacts service and has caused some to adjust their hours, as they are unable to adequately staff the kitchen and customer service locations.
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