Friedman’s Freshmarkets is struggling to keep their shelves stocked as they try to solve distribution issues.

A letter appearing to be from the Friedman’s management team was made available in the stores, starting a little more than a month ago.

“We have been having severe supply problems with our primary supplier, MDI, and have been in constant discussions for months,” the notice reads, in part.

After their former wholesaler — AWI — claimed bankruptcy, the supermarket contracted with Merchants Distributors of Hickory, N.C., in 2015 as their primary supplier, according to Carole Bitter, president and CEO of Friedman’s Freshmarkets.

Bitter declined to speak about the specifics of the situation, citing the possibility that Friedmans could take legal action against the supplier, but said stores continue to stock meats, produce and other perishables. She said her other vendors have stepped up.

“None of our perishables items are a problem,” she said. “It’s very clear where the problem lies.”

A full story appears in Friday's Butler Eagle.