OKLAHOMA CITY ( KFOR ) – OKC metro stores say they’re seeing an increase in shoppers buying toilet paper in bulk, despite reassurances there’s no threat of a shortage.
Social media posts link the concerns to a major port strike that economists warn could have an impact on rising product costs; and shortages but not on toilet paper distribution.
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“If somebody has a problem, they sort of put it on Facebook and next thing you know, it’s spread all over the place and for no reason at all,” said Midwest City resident, Richard Anderson.
The lack of an actual problem tied to the port strike is because a majority of toilet paper consumed in the U.S. actually comes from factories within the country (including some factories in Oklahoma); as well as neighboring countries like Canada or Mexico. Shipments from those countries often come by truck or train, which would not be impacted by a port strike.
“All the shelves are full, everything is stocked,” said Anderson, who told News 4 employees he rushed to the Midwest City Sam’s Club Wednesday after his wife heard about concerns.