We’ve had a few snowstorms so far this year in Central PA, and we know we’re not done yet.

But with supply chain issues, the things you need – shovels, salt, a scraper for your car - might not be on the shelves.

The owner of Hornung’s ACE Hardware in Linglestown, Bill Hornung, says supply chain issues have impacted every aspect of business including morale of employees.

“People’s nature is basically when they need it, they’re going to buy it,” Hornung said.

Employees are tracking down shipments, spending more on products and buying in large amounts.

“Keeping things on the shelves is difficult because when things do become available people buy them,” Hornung said. “That creates supply chain issues because people are now hoarding product.”

The salt, for example, Hornung says, “this can all disappear in one day.”

Hornung says they have to buy things like salt about a year in advance, meaning we could still be seeing the impacts of the supply chain issues next winter.

“When we can’t get it from our suppliers, we end up turning to the internet or things like that," Hornung said. "Of course you’re buying it at full price, so then your margin suffers.”

This leads to price increases.

“Before you know it, you’re not making enough margin to pay for your people,” Hornung said.

Then morale suffers and folks find jobs elsewhere.

“You’re struggling, you’re trying to get things done, you’re paying less attention to your people, so it gets really crazy trying to keep people motivated and at the same time trying to keep their spirits up," Hornung said.