CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – A national chicken wing shortage is ruffling feathers at local restaurants, causing raised prices, limited menus and temporary closings.
According to multiple news sources, the relaxing of COVID-19 restrictions nationwide created a huge demand in the restaurant industry, and some suppliers, still operating at limited capacity, are struggling to keep up. What’s more, Texas-based chicken farmers lost millions of birds in February due to winter storms.
The shortage has affected restaurants on a national level, with popular chains like Wing Stop launching new promotions to adapt.
On the local level, restaurants are struggling to meet demand. This week, Fat Shack placed a notice on their door saying they were temporarily out of wings.
Matthew Burns, owner of Dream Wingz, told Clarksville Now he has had to limit hours due to lack of product. In recent weeks, orders that were supposed to be 13 cases of wings turned out to be only one, barely enough to make it through the lunch rush.
Many wing shops have had to raise prices to compensate, but Burns is grateful for customers’ patience.
“We have an amazing customer base. They have definitely supported us through this,” Burns said. “They’ve been disappointed, but they have been understanding.”
Other businesses have diversified their menu. Flavorz Seasoned Kitchen, which recently opened on Providence Boulevard, has pivoted to serve fried fish.
“It just kind of hit us out of nowhere,” said Flavorz owner Jessica Bailey. “I’m looking for more new items to come to the menu very soon.”
The chicken industry has shown signs of recovery. Burns said he has heard from suppliers that they are “holding steady” and are no longer selling out of chicken as fast; however, he is anticipating at least eight months of limited supply, just to be safe.