Ukraine faces food supply disruptions following logistics center strikes

Supply chain disruptions are affecting food availability in Ukraine following Russian strikes on logistics centers, including a facility in Gatne near Kyiv. McDonald’s has confirmed menu limitations in certain restaurants, citing delivery delays caused by frequent and prolonged air raid alerts. While core ingredients like potatoes, flour, and meat have not physically run out, the ability to process, store, and transport them has been compromised.

According to official Ukrainian reports, approximately 90% of modern storage facilities relied upon by the retail sector were destroyed by the end of August. This has forced major supermarket chains to implement purchase limits to prevent hoarding and ensure availability. The ATB network has restricted customers to a maximum of six units of basic goods per person, while Auchan has implemented similar limits on items such as canned goods, butter, salt, sugar, flour, and pasta.

Retailers are shifting toward less efficient logistics models to cope with the crisis. This includes direct deliveries from manufacturers, the use of small, scattered warehouses, and increasing stock levels directly within stores. While some chains like Novus have moved away from centralized distribution hubs to maintain flow, these decentralized methods increase costs due to the higher requirement for vehicles, drivers, and fuel.