Why is there a shortage of everything?
COLUMBUS (WCMH)  Everywhere you turn in 2021, it seems something you need is in short supply. And families hoping for a new backyard pool this summer are the latest to learn of shortages. Chris Schwitzers job these days is often telling customers they are going to have to wait. I understand the disappointment, but please understand we are doing everything in our power to get product.  Chris is the manager of a swimming pool store. While he still has above ground pool kits in stock, if you just need to replace your pool liner, thats another story. Theres a definite shortage of pool liners, and it is affecting the entire industry, he said. The pool liner shortage is like so many shortages right now. A combination of surging demand during the pandemic, and factories shutting down for at least a couple of months last year. CNN says the same issues are affecting supplies of:  Chlorine tablets for pools. Computer chips. Pickup trucks as a result of the chip shortage. Xboxs and Playstations. Drywall for home building. Drywall paste. Precious metals to make catalytic converters. Making it worse: A labor and truck driver shortage. That is causing major bottlenecks, according to Kerry Byrne of Total Quality logistics, the second largest freight brokerage firm in the US. What we are seeing is a disruption in the supply chain that happens sometimes when there is a limited capacity, he said. But now with the labor shortage it has just been exacerbated.  So whether you need a sheet of drywall or a pool liner, Schwitzer explains theres not enough material out there to supply everyone.  Pool sellers hope that by this winter the liner and chlorine shortage ease, so that families can get their new dream pool by next summer. As always dont waste your money. Dont Waste Your Money is a registered trademark of Scripps Media, Inc. (Scripps). Like John Matarese Money on Facebook  Follow John on Instagram @johnmataresemoney  Follow John on Twitter (@JohnMatarese)  For more consumer news and money saving advice, go to www.dontwasteyourmoney.com