Concern over stockpiling due to coronavirus fears has caused UK supermarkets such as Sainsbury's, Tesco and Aldi to come together to urge the public not to buy more than they need.
Twelve of the country's biggest retailers issued a joint statement in which they said they announced:
"we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials you need."
However, the rush of customers shopping excessively, stockpiling items such as toilet roll, soap and long life goods in the last week has caused empty shelves across stores.
In Edinburgh, shops and supermarkets across the city from Leith to Longstone have seen shortages in similar items.
In their joint letter the retailers asked the public to work with them at this time and to be considerate when shopping, after stating that their click and collect and online delivery services are currently at "full capacity".
Fears of the spread of the virus and the potential need to self-isolate are said to be the driving force behind this wave of panic-buying.
The letter aims to reassure customers, whilst also asking them to support each other at this time.
In their statement, the retailers also asked the public to be aware of those such as the elderly and the vulnerable at this time:
"We would ask everyone to be considerate in the way they shop. We understand your concerns but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without.
"Together we can make sure we are looking out for family, friends, neighbours.
"Together we will care for those around us and those who are elderly, vulnerable or choosing to remain at home."
There are currently 153 confirmed cases of the virus in Scotland, with this number expected to continue to rise in the coming days.
If you want to stay informed on all the updates of coronavirus in Edinburgh and the Lothians, you can follow our live blog here.
