Strong Condemnation In Utah on Social Media For PANIC BUYING

These are the Biggest Villains on Social Media Right Now

Who is the current target for social media rage? Just search toilet paper shortage and check out the number of posts each with hundreds of comments. The frustration with panic buying has become a massive topic of conversation since the Longshoreman Strike. 

The announcement that 45,000 dock workers at the ports on the east coast and the gulf spawned worries about supply change shortages. This led to many buying up toilet paper and bottled water.  

I talked to someone who went to Costco soon after the strike was reported and he found lines leading to the back of the store. Later that day I was shopping at Smiths at Dino Crossing and the shelves were well stocked with toilet paper and water. So, I don’t know how much of a run there was. 

Here's just one example of many where people expressed their outrage: KSL Post About Panic Buying in Utah

How the Comments Break Down 

Most of the people responding point out the stupidity of panic buying. These also include those who note that the majority of toilet paper is made in the United States and doesn’t come from a ship. CNN reports that 90% is in the U.S. and the rest from Canada and Mexico. 

Other comments condemn those leaving the shelves bare as they actually need some rolls and there is nothing to buy. They are usually the ones who post pictures of what is going on. I suspect some of them may be part of the problem. 

Read More: Uh-Oh, Will This Affect Your Costco Experience in Utah?

Who do you not hear from on any of the social media comments? The actual people doing the panic buying. This makes me think there are more of us creating the problem than fess up to it. I think part of the strong reaction online is that we all know we are susceptible to letting our worry get the best of us. 

Seeing the level of frustration expressed all over social media including here in Utah, it is surprising anyone panic buys. If you are heading to the check-out line with a cart heaping with TP right now, you are immune to shame.