ALTON — Schwegel's Grocery Store in Alton experienced a surge in customers seeking essential supplies Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, and Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, amid forecasts of heavy snow and severe winter weather for the weekend, according to co-owner Monica Schwegel on Friday.
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Located at 901 Alby St., Schwegel's reported steady inventory despite increased demand. Schwegel said the store has always maintained stock of milk, eggs, bread, and rock salt, which residents were preparing to buy in anticipation of heavy snow.
“Actually, it is not too bad. We are definitely busier yesterday and today than we normally are,” Schwegel said. “We are holding up alright a lot more these last two days.”
She said Schwegel's had ordered extra food supplies in anticipation of the bad weather.
The forecast of heavy winter weather has prompted a noticeable increase in sales, she added, creating a sense of urgency among shoppers. Schwegel noted a shift in buying patterns compared to previous years.
“It is different now than it used to be. It used to only be bread, eggs and milk. Now it seems those three items are still a hot item, plus meat, chili sales and other meals. It is not just bread, eggs and milk anymore."
The heightened activity at Schwegel's reflects local residents’ preparations for the approaching winter storm, with many seeking to stock up on essential food and supplies.
