I like the policy because it reminds the store management and employees of the importance of getting some whatever (onions, etc.) reordered ASAP. And it doesn't

I like the policy because it reminds the store management and employees of the importance of getting some whatever (onions, etc.) reordered ASAP. And it doesn't paper over the problem. Also in a move that is only partly evil, it helps enlist customers in reminding employees to do their jobs. Which yes the customers would do anyway, but in this system they do it earlier. And with more standing, because pointing to an empty dedicated space is more compelling than wondering out loud to the produce worker whether the store even carries jicama or whatever the product is. That being said, I have almost never seen empty shelves at any Whole Foods store. And I go to several of them pretty regularly. Maybe my local ones are just well managed. Or maybe they have an easier time in California since some produce can be sourced locally.