South Jersey shoppers rush to stock up ahead of snowstorm

AUDUBON, N.J. (WPVI) -- The parking lot at the Acme in Audubon was packed Friday, as shoppers made their final grocery runs ahead of an anticipated snowstorm set to move into the region.

Carts rolled steadily in and out of the store throughout the day, as customers prepared to hunker down and avoid potentially icy roads.

"I mean sometimes you can't even move," said John Janoski, store manager, describing the crowded aisles.

Inside, it was a constant stream of customers stocking up on classic storm staples.

"You want your milk, your eggs, your bread," said Kim Walters Branch of Pennsauken, echoing the familiar list many shoppers carried with them.

Store management says they anticipated the rush and made sure shelves were stocked, and staff were ready.

"We've been loading up. I've got people working, we've been calling people in," Janoski said. "Everybody's working hard."

Even as employees replenished items, prepared shoppers quickly scooped them up.

"I have a duck, I have some milk and eggs, cereal and kielbasa, and all kinds of goodies," said Billy Wilson of Audubon.

The rush wasn't limited to grocery stores. Local liquor stores also saw an uptick in customers looking to add a little extra comfort to their storm supplies.

At Wine Legend, shoppers browsed bottles in preparation for a cozy weekend indoors.

"She enjoys her tequila rose," said Duane Griffith of Washington Township.

Mary Reed of Westmont said she was shopping with her daughter in mind.

"I'm making it really nice for her, and I'm thinking this is going to be good for me too, I hope," Reed said.

With snow in the forecast, many South Jersey residents say they'd rather be safe than sorry, stocked up, settled in, and ready to ride out the storm.