Every few years, consumers are struck by the newest craze where demand exceeds supply, resulting in apocalyptic, pre-hurricanesque hysteria. In the ‘80s, the Cabbage Patch Kids ignited mayhem, and adults stampeded toy stores across the country like herds of cattle. In 1996, it was Tickle Me Elmo, whose limited supply incited violence in the aisles of Toys “R” Us, and sellers were pricing them at $1,500 apiece. With each debut of a Harry Potter book, mobs of enthusiasts pounded on bookstore doors hours before they opened.
Ten minutes ago, I pried the last container of 50/50 salad mix from an old woman’s hands in the produce aisle of Big Y.
New England shoppers within three miles of their local Stop & Shop…Godspeed.