A widespread shortage of a classic British bathroom staple has left shoppers across the UK frustrated, with major retailers reporting empty shelves.
Nationwide Stock-Out at Major Retailers
TCP Antiseptic Liquid, a trusted product for generations, has become virtually impossible to find. High street giants including Boots, Superdrug, and Lloyds Pharmacy currently list the 200ml bottle as out of stock on their websites. Supermarkets like Tesco and even online behemoth Amazon are also showing no available supplies.
The scarcity has driven some to extreme measures on secondary markets. On eBay, one seller advertised a single 200ml bottle for an astonishing £109.99, claiming it was among the "last few bottles in the UK". Social media platforms are filled with concerned queries from consumers. One user on X (formerly Twitter) asked: "What’s happened to TCP ANTISEPTIC? Can’t buy it anywhere." Another echoed the sentiment, stating they had tried "all major supermarkets and pharmacies" to no avail.
Manufacturing Issues Behind the Scarcity
The root cause of the shortage has been confirmed by the brand's owner, Phoenix Labs. The company explained that it purchased the TCP brand, along with two others, from Perrigo at the end of 2024. This acquisition came with significant, pre-existing manufacturing and ingredient supply problems.
A spokesperson for Phoenix Labs stated: "Unfortunately, when we purchased TCP we inherited legacy manufacturing issues which has meant that the product has gone into short supply. There is still a small quantity of product available through select retailers but ultimately this quantity will fall short of current market demand."
When Will TCP Return to Shelves?
Phoenix Labs assures the public that resolving these issues is a top priority. The company reports making "good progress" over the past few months in fixing the inherited problems. However, they have not been able to provide a concrete date for the product's full return to shops.
"We are making every effort to ensure that TCP is back on shelves in the near future," the spokesperson added. For now, customers who rely on the distinctive-smelling liquid to soothe sore throats, treat mouth ulcers, and clean minor cuts and grazes must seek alternatives, much to their disappointment. As one consumer lamented online: "I really miss it too. I love the smell and nothing else comes close."
