Backlash from shoppers forces Woolworths to reverse 'controversial' change
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Woolworths has backflipped on unpopular changes to its customer loyalty program, Everyday Rewards, after copping a barrage of complaints from angry shoppers.
The controversy began in June when the supermarket giant announced it would scrap the 10 per cent monthly discount on all online orders starting from 1 July for Everyday Rewards members who pay a $7 monthly subscription fee.
The move didn't go down well. Thousands of loyal customers took to social media to vent their frustration, claiming the discount was the only reason they signed up in the first place.
Many said losing the savings on online shopping would disadvantage people unable to easily visit stores, including seniors and people with disabilities.
'Removing the online discount is a huge kick in the guts for the elderly and those who are disabled and unable to shop in-store,' one shopper pointed out on social media.
Another agreed and added, 'Way to isolate your rural customers there, Woolies. I live over an hour away from the nearest Woolies. They do delivery out here once a week.'
'Are they not making enough money already? Seriously, this is insane. People are beyond struggling,' said a third.
Other customers threatened to jump ship to rivals like ALDI if the changes went ahead.
Fortunately, Woolworths management has responded to these concerns. A spokesperson for the company confirmed that the discount will be available again starting from November 1 for eligible Everyday Extra subscribers when shopping online at Woolworths and BIG W.
'After carefully listening to customer feedback, we've heard that our Everyday Extra subscribers want the option to redeem their monthly discount in-store or online,' they said.
'We thank our customers for their feedback and hope this change will make it easier for our Everyday Extra subscribers to unlock even more value this Christmas and for the year ahead.'
They also mentioned that subscribers could use the discount on Everyday Rewards 'Member Price' items for more savings. It's important to note that users can save a maximum of $100 in a single shopping trip using this discount.
If you're on the fence about joining the supermarket's rewards program, here are the benefits you get with Woolworths' Everyday Extra subscription:
1. Save 10 per cent monthly on one in-store purchase at Woolworths and one in-store purchase at BIG W, which can add up to $100 in monthly savings.
2. Earn double points on every purchase, both in-store and online, at Woolworths and BIG W.
3. Access exclusive free products, special offers, and promotions available only to subscribers.
Members, have Woolworths' recent changes impacted your experience? Have you decided to cancel your subscription, or are you still happily shopping with the supermarket giant?
Given this latest announcement, are you thinking about subscribing or renewing your subscription anytime soon? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
The controversy began in June when the supermarket giant announced it would scrap the 10 per cent monthly discount on all online orders starting from 1 July for Everyday Rewards members who pay a $7 monthly subscription fee.
The move didn't go down well. Thousands of loyal customers took to social media to vent their frustration, claiming the discount was the only reason they signed up in the first place.
Many said losing the savings on online shopping would disadvantage people unable to easily visit stores, including seniors and people with disabilities.
'Removing the online discount is a huge kick in the guts for the elderly and those who are disabled and unable to shop in-store,' one shopper pointed out on social media.
Another agreed and added, 'Way to isolate your rural customers there, Woolies. I live over an hour away from the nearest Woolies. They do delivery out here once a week.'
'Are they not making enough money already? Seriously, this is insane. People are beyond struggling,' said a third.
Other customers threatened to jump ship to rivals like ALDI if the changes went ahead.
Fortunately, Woolworths management has responded to these concerns. A spokesperson for the company confirmed that the discount will be available again starting from November 1 for eligible Everyday Extra subscribers when shopping online at Woolworths and BIG W.
'After carefully listening to customer feedback, we've heard that our Everyday Extra subscribers want the option to redeem their monthly discount in-store or online,' they said.
'We thank our customers for their feedback and hope this change will make it easier for our Everyday Extra subscribers to unlock even more value this Christmas and for the year ahead.'
They also mentioned that subscribers could use the discount on Everyday Rewards 'Member Price' items for more savings. It's important to note that users can save a maximum of $100 in a single shopping trip using this discount.
If you're on the fence about joining the supermarket's rewards program, here are the benefits you get with Woolworths' Everyday Extra subscription:
1. Save 10 per cent monthly on one in-store purchase at Woolworths and one in-store purchase at BIG W, which can add up to $100 in monthly savings.
2. Earn double points on every purchase, both in-store and online, at Woolworths and BIG W.
3. Access exclusive free products, special offers, and promotions available only to subscribers.
Key Takeaways
- Woolworths Australia has reversed a controversial decision to eliminate the 10 per cent 'once monthly' discount for online orders from its Everyday Extras subscription program.
- The decision to scrap the online discount in July prompted outrage from thousands of customers, many of whom claimed that they subscribed to the service primarily because of the discount.
- Following customer feedback, the online discount will be reinstated from November 1 for eligible Extra subscribers.
Members, have Woolworths' recent changes impacted your experience? Have you decided to cancel your subscription, or are you still happily shopping with the supermarket giant?
Given this latest announcement, are you thinking about subscribing or renewing your subscription anytime soon? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!