Feeling the Christmas pinch? Shoppers call to boycott Woolworths and Coles

As the festive season approaches, Australians are bracing themselves for its impact on their wallets.

The rising cost of living has been a persistent issue, and this year, it's hitting family budgets harder than ever. In response, some disgruntled shoppers are taking a stand, calling for a boycott of supermarket duopoly Woolworths and Coles over escalating prices.


Brisbane resident Dylan Fragomeni leads the charge, urging shoppers to avoid Woolworths and Coles in the days leading up to Christmas.

These are typically the busiest trading days for these retailers, and Fragomeni believes a boycott could send a powerful message.


pexels-tara-clark-9070106.jpg
Shoppers are calling for a Coles and Woolies boycott. Credit: Tara Clark/Pexels


'Buy all your Christmas stuff beforehand, preferably from somewhere else. If you've forgotten anything on the 24th, go to a different shop if you can,' she suggested in a now-viral video uploaded online.

Fragomeni's call to action is fuelled by her belief that Woolworths and Coles, who have posted record profits this year, could do more to prevent price rises on essential items from being passed onto customers.

‘What is normally their most profitable day of the year is going to become their worst day of the year,’ she added.


'Businesses are there to make money, I get that, but in a time where the people who keep your business alive are struggling, it seems a bit unethical to make an increased profit from that,' she argued.

Fragomeni encouraged her followers to shop at local FoodWorks, IGA, farmer's markets or ALDI to 'send a message' to the dominant players.

She herself has changed her shopping habits due to rising prices, opting for ALDI or dollar stores instead.

The call for a boycott has received mixed reactions online, with some people mocking the idea, others expressing support, and many simply resigned to the reality of inflation.

‘As a Coles worker, please, I beg of you, please do this, I’m dreading the 24th so much,’ a social media user commented.

‘Easier for people that have choices. Only got Woolworths in this town,’ another remarked.

‘I'm shopping there, no one tells me what to do,’ a third person said.

‘If we get our stuff at Coles and Woolies before the 24th, aren't they technically still making a profit?’ Someone asked.

‘All the people in the comments complaining that it won’t work but also then complaining about the prices. Okay, if you hate it, why not join in with us and try to do something about it,’ Fragomeni stated.


Fragomeni is not alone in her push, it seems.

On social media, some are promoting a boycott of big supermarkets in December. This effort has gained traction with the help of a recent speech given by Victorian MP Ellen Sandell in state parliament.

'The supermarket duopoly of Coles and Woolworths is ripping people off,' the Greens MP argued. 'Groceries this year across the board are up 10 per cent, outpacing inflation. But you know what else is up? The profits of the supermarkets.'

Queensland independent grocer Skippy's Fresh Frootz has also jumped on board, posting a video supporting the boycott and urging Australians to 'shop independent' this Christmas.

You can watch Fragomeni’s video here:



The rising cost of living and the impact of inflation

Inflation has been unevenly felt across the economy, but consumers are particularly sensitive to price rises in essential items like food and fuel. This has resulted in supermarket giants drawing the ire of some Aussies.

Coles posted a $9.2 billion first (financial) quarter sales revenue, an increase of 4.7 per cent on the same period last year. Meanwhile, Woolworths posted $12.96 billion in food retail sales, an increase of 6.1 per cent.

While the cost of some fresh produce has actually come down in recent months, Aussies are overall buying more groceries and scaling back on eating out.


'Aussies are trying to scrimp and save wherever possible, but the money we're not spending on going out or takeaway food usually just funnels back to the supermarkets,' Financial Expert David Koch said last month.

'And when prices go up, they seldom come down as we all get used to paying more for less. The mega-store duopoly doesn't help either as there's less competition to help drive down prices.'

The supermarket giants' response

In light of the boycott demands, Woolworths cited its Low Price program, which covers thousands of products, and emphasised its ongoing effort to reduce prices on 150 key Christmas items.

'We're acutely aware of the pressure that's being placed on Australian families through [the] cost of living increases, whether they are our customers or our team members. And we’re doing more every day to help customers spend less with us,' a spokesperson told a news source.

Similarly, Coles pointed out that it reduced prices on 500 grocery items in August and emphasised that it makes only $2.60 for every $100 spent in its stores.

'At Coles, we believe all Australians should be able to put quality food on the table for their families, and we are always exploring ways to reduce prices on the products we sell,' a Coles spokesperson stated.


Despite these assurances, more than a third of Australians said the rising cost of groceries has had the biggest impact on their household budget and was the biggest financial burden, above mortgage repayments and energy prices, according to a recent Compare the Market survey.

Key Takeaways
  • Some Australian shoppers are urging a boycott of supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths in the lead-up to Christmas amid frustrations over rising prices.
  • Dylan Fragomeni, a Brisbane resident, led the call for a boycott on the retailers' busiest trading days. She suggested shopping at local FoodWorks, IGA, ALDI or farmer's markets instead.
  • Coles and Woolworths have defended their pricing structures, citing their efforts to reduce prices with special offers and initiatives.
  • Over a third of Australians have reported that the increased cost of groceries is the most significant impact on their household budget, superseding mortgage repayments and energy costs.

What are your thoughts on this proposed boycott, members? Have you noticed a significant increase in your grocery bills? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Ezzy, Liz and Agave
Sponsored
Don't recall when I even bothered t
As the festive season approaches, Australians are bracing themselves for its impact on their wallets.

The rising cost of living has been a persistent issue, and this year, it's hitting family budgets harder than ever. In response, some disgruntled shoppers are taking a stand, calling for a boycott of supermarket duopoly Woolworths and Coles over escalating prices.


Brisbane resident Dylan Fragomeni leads the charge, urging shoppers to avoid Woolworths and Coles in the days leading up to Christmas.

These are typically the busiest trading days for these retailers, and Fragomeni believes a boycott could send a powerful message.


View attachment 35822
Shoppers are calling for a Coles and Woolies boycott. Credit: Tara Clark/Pexels


'Buy all your Christmas stuff beforehand, preferably from somewhere else. If you've forgotten anything on the 24th, go to a different shop if you can,' she suggested in a now-viral video uploaded online.

Fragomeni's call to action is fuelled by her belief that Woolworths and Coles, who have posted record profits this year, could do more to prevent price rises on essential items from being passed onto customers.

‘What is normally their most profitable day of the year is going to become their worst day of the year,’ she added.


'Businesses are there to make money, I get that, but in a time where the people who keep your business alive are struggling, it seems a bit unethical to make an increased profit from that,' she argued.

Fragomeni encouraged her followers to shop at local FoodWorks, IGA, farmer's markets or ALDI to 'send a message' to the dominant players.

She herself has changed her shopping habits due to rising prices, opting for ALDI or dollar stores instead.

The call for a boycott has received mixed reactions online, with some people mocking the idea, others expressing support, and many simply resigned to the reality of inflation.

‘As a Coles worker, please, I beg of you, please do this, I’m dreading the 24th so much,’ a social media user commented.

‘Easier for people that have choices. Only got Woolworths in this town,’ another remarked.

‘I'm shopping there, no one tells me what to do,’ a third person said.

‘If we get our stuff at Coles and Woolies before the 24th, aren't they technically still making a profit?’ Someone asked.

‘All the people in the comments complaining that it won’t work but also then complaining about the prices. Okay, if you hate it, why not join in with us and try to do something about it,’ Fragomeni stated.


Fragomeni is not alone in her push, it seems.

On social media, some are promoting a boycott of big supermarkets in December. This effort has gained traction with the help of a recent speech given by Victorian MP Ellen Sandell in state parliament.

'The supermarket duopoly of Coles and Woolworths is ripping people off,' the Greens MP argued. 'Groceries this year across the board are up 10 per cent, outpacing inflation. But you know what else is up? The profits of the supermarkets.'

Queensland independent grocer Skippy's Fresh Frootz has also jumped on board, posting a video supporting the boycott and urging Australians to 'shop independent' this Christmas.

You can watch Fragomeni’s video here:



The rising cost of living and the impact of inflation

Inflation has been unevenly felt across the economy, but consumers are particularly sensitive to price rises in essential items like food and fuel. This has resulted in supermarket giants drawing the ire of some Aussies.

Coles posted a $9.2 billion first (financial) quarter sales revenue, an increase of 4.7 per cent on the same period last year. Meanwhile, Woolworths posted $12.96 billion in food retail sales, an increase of 6.1 per cent.

While the cost of some fresh produce has actually come down in recent months, Aussies are overall buying more groceries and scaling back on eating out.


'Aussies are trying to scrimp and save wherever possible, but the money we're not spending on going out or takeaway food usually just funnels back to the supermarkets,' Financial Expert David Koch said last month.

'And when prices go up, they seldom come down as we all get used to paying more for less. The mega-store duopoly doesn't help either as there's less competition to help drive down prices.'

The supermarket giants' response

In light of the boycott demands, Woolworths cited its Low Price program, which covers thousands of products, and emphasised its ongoing effort to reduce prices on 150 key Christmas items.

'We're acutely aware of the pressure that's being placed on Australian families through [the] cost of living increases, whether they are our customers or our team members. And we’re doing more every day to help customers spend less with us,' a spokesperson told a news source.

Similarly, Coles pointed out that it reduced prices on 500 grocery items in August and emphasised that it makes only $2.60 for every $100 spent in its stores.

'At Coles, we believe all Australians should be able to put quality food on the table for their families, and we are always exploring ways to reduce prices on the products we sell,' a Coles spokesperson stated.


Despite these assurances, more than a third of Australians said the rising cost of groceries has had the biggest impact on their household budget and was the biggest financial burden, above mortgage repayments and energy prices, according to a recent Compare the Market survey.

Key Takeaways

  • Some Australian shoppers are urging a boycott of supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths in the lead-up to Christmas amid frustrations over rising prices.
  • Dylan Fragomeni, a Brisbane resident, led the call for a boycott on the retailers' busiest trading days. She suggested shopping at local FoodWorks, IGA, ALDI or farmer's markets instead.
  • Coles and Woolworths have defended their pricing structures, citing their efforts to reduce prices with special offers and initiatives.
  • Over a third of Australians have reported that the increased cost of groceries is the most significant impact on their household budget, superseding mortgage repayments and energy costs.

What are your thoughts on this proposed boycott, members? Have you noticed a significant increase in your grocery bills? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

There are better smaller supermarkets which are a bit cheaper and much fresher veggies than woolworths and coles
 
  • Like
Reactions: Gsr
As the festive season approaches, Australians are bracing themselves for its impact on their wallets.

The rising cost of living has been a persistent issue, and this year, it's hitting family budgets harder than ever. In response, some disgruntled shoppers are taking a stand, calling for a boycott of supermarket duopoly Woolworths and Coles over escalating prices.


Brisbane resident Dylan Fragomeni leads the charge, urging shoppers to avoid Woolworths and Coles in the days leading up to Christmas.

These are typically the busiest trading days for these retailers, and Fragomeni believes a boycott could send a powerful message.


View attachment 35822
Shoppers are calling for a Coles and Woolies boycott. Credit: Tara Clark/Pexels


'Buy all your Christmas stuff beforehand, preferably from somewhere else. If you've forgotten anything on the 24th, go to a different shop if you can,' she suggested in a now-viral video uploaded online.

Fragomeni's call to action is fuelled by her belief that Woolworths and Coles, who have posted record profits this year, could do more to prevent price rises on essential items from being passed onto customers.

‘What is normally their most profitable day of the year is going to become their worst day of the year,’ she added.


'Businesses are there to make money, I get that, but in a time where the people who keep your business alive are struggling, it seems a bit unethical to make an increased profit from that,' she argued.

Fragomeni encouraged her followers to shop at local FoodWorks, IGA, farmer's markets or ALDI to 'send a message' to the dominant players.

She herself has changed her shopping habits due to rising prices, opting for ALDI or dollar stores instead.

The call for a boycott has received mixed reactions online, with some people mocking the idea, others expressing support, and many simply resigned to the reality of inflation.

‘As a Coles worker, please, I beg of you, please do this, I’m dreading the 24th so much,’ a social media user commented.

‘Easier for people that have choices. Only got Woolworths in this town,’ another remarked.

‘I'm shopping there, no one tells me what to do,’ a third person said.

‘If we get our stuff at Coles and Woolies before the 24th, aren't they technically still making a profit?’ Someone asked.

‘All the people in the comments complaining that it won’t work but also then complaining about the prices. Okay, if you hate it, why not join in with us and try to do something about it,’ Fragomeni stated.


Fragomeni is not alone in her push, it seems.

On social media, some are promoting a boycott of big supermarkets in December. This effort has gained traction with the help of a recent speech given by Victorian MP Ellen Sandell in state parliament.

'The supermarket duopoly of Coles and Woolworths is ripping people off,' the Greens MP argued. 'Groceries this year across the board are up 10 per cent, outpacing inflation. But you know what else is up? The profits of the supermarkets.'

Queensland independent grocer Skippy's Fresh Frootz has also jumped on board, posting a video supporting the boycott and urging Australians to 'shop independent' this Christmas.

You can watch Fragomeni’s video here:



The rising cost of living and the impact of inflation

Inflation has been unevenly felt across the economy, but consumers are particularly sensitive to price rises in essential items like food and fuel. This has resulted in supermarket giants drawing the ire of some Aussies.

Coles posted a $9.2 billion first (financial) quarter sales revenue, an increase of 4.7 per cent on the same period last year. Meanwhile, Woolworths posted $12.96 billion in food retail sales, an increase of 6.1 per cent.

While the cost of some fresh produce has actually come down in recent months, Aussies are overall buying more groceries and scaling back on eating out.


'Aussies are trying to scrimp and save wherever possible, but the money we're not spending on going out or takeaway food usually just funnels back to the supermarkets,' Financial Expert David Koch said last month.

'And when prices go up, they seldom come down as we all get used to paying more for less. The mega-store duopoly doesn't help either as there's less competition to help drive down prices.'

The supermarket giants' response

In light of the boycott demands, Woolworths cited its Low Price program, which covers thousands of products, and emphasised its ongoing effort to reduce prices on 150 key Christmas items.

'We're acutely aware of the pressure that's being placed on Australian families through [the] cost of living increases, whether they are our customers or our team members. And we’re doing more every day to help customers spend less with us,' a spokesperson told a news source.

Similarly, Coles pointed out that it reduced prices on 500 grocery items in August and emphasised that it makes only $2.60 for every $100 spent in its stores.

'At Coles, we believe all Australians should be able to put quality food on the table for their families, and we are always exploring ways to reduce prices on the products we sell,' a Coles spokesperson stated.


Despite these assurances, more than a third of Australians said the rising cost of groceries has had the biggest impact on their household budget and was the biggest financial burden, above mortgage repayments and energy prices, according to a recent Compare the Market survey.

Key Takeaways

  • Some Australian shoppers are urging a boycott of supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths in the lead-up to Christmas amid frustrations over rising prices.
  • Dylan Fragomeni, a Brisbane resident, led the call for a boycott on the retailers' busiest trading days. She suggested shopping at local FoodWorks, IGA, ALDI or farmer's markets instead.
  • Coles and Woolworths have defended their pricing structures, citing their efforts to reduce prices with special offers and initiatives.
  • Over a third of Australians have reported that the increased cost of groceries is the most significant impact on their household budget, superseding mortgage repayments and energy costs.

What are your thoughts on this proposed boycott, members? Have you noticed a significant increase in your grocery bills? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Yes, agreed. Unfortunately, this has been all mentioned before with petrol prices. But alas, the majority still do their daily habits and rituals, driving up prices. As retailers, know exactly what to expect. A day/days of action would certainly wake them up. Rolling boycotts, would get their attention. Retailers are still making record profits.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Gsr
As the festive season approaches, Australians are bracing themselves for its impact on their wallets.

The rising cost of living has been a persistent issue, and this year, it's hitting family budgets harder than ever. In response, some disgruntled shoppers are taking a stand, calling for a boycott of supermarket duopoly Woolworths and Coles over escalating prices.


Brisbane resident Dylan Fragomeni leads the charge, urging shoppers to avoid Woolworths and Coles in the days leading up to Christmas.

These are typically the busiest trading days for these retailers, and Fragomeni believes a boycott could send a powerful message.


View attachment 35822
Shoppers are calling for a Coles and Woolies boycott. Credit: Tara Clark/Pexels


'Buy all your Christmas stuff beforehand, preferably from somewhere else. If you've forgotten anything on the 24th, go to a different shop if you can,' she suggested in a now-viral video uploaded online.

Fragomeni's call to action is fuelled by her belief that Woolworths and Coles, who have posted record profits this year, could do more to prevent price rises on essential items from being passed onto customers.

‘What is normally their most profitable day of the year is going to become their worst day of the year,’ she added.


'Businesses are there to make money, I get that, but in a time where the people who keep your business alive are struggling, it seems a bit unethical to make an increased profit from that,' she argued.

Fragomeni encouraged her followers to shop at local FoodWorks, IGA, farmer's markets or ALDI to 'send a message' to the dominant players.

She herself has changed her shopping habits due to rising prices, opting for ALDI or dollar stores instead.

The call for a boycott has received mixed reactions online, with some people mocking the idea, others expressing support, and many simply resigned to the reality of inflation.

‘As a Coles worker, please, I beg of you, please do this, I’m dreading the 24th so much,’ a social media user commented.

‘Easier for people that have choices. Only got Woolworths in this town,’ another remarked.

‘I'm shopping there, no one tells me what to do,’ a third person said.

‘If we get our stuff at Coles and Woolies before the 24th, aren't they technically still making a profit?’ Someone asked.

‘All the people in the comments complaining that it won’t work but also then complaining about the prices. Okay, if you hate it, why not join in with us and try to do something about it,’ Fragomeni stated.


Fragomeni is not alone in her push, it seems.

On social media, some are promoting a boycott of big supermarkets in December. This effort has gained traction with the help of a recent speech given by Victorian MP Ellen Sandell in state parliament.

'The supermarket duopoly of Coles and Woolworths is ripping people off,' the Greens MP argued. 'Groceries this year across the board are up 10 per cent, outpacing inflation. But you know what else is up? The profits of the supermarkets.'

Queensland independent grocer Skippy's Fresh Frootz has also jumped on board, posting a video supporting the boycott and urging Australians to 'shop independent' this Christmas.

You can watch Fragomeni’s video here:



The rising cost of living and the impact of inflation

Inflation has been unevenly felt across the economy, but consumers are particularly sensitive to price rises in essential items like food and fuel. This has resulted in supermarket giants drawing the ire of some Aussies.

Coles posted a $9.2 billion first (financial) quarter sales revenue, an increase of 4.7 per cent on the same period last year. Meanwhile, Woolworths posted $12.96 billion in food retail sales, an increase of 6.1 per cent.

While the cost of some fresh produce has actually come down in recent months, Aussies are overall buying more groceries and scaling back on eating out.


'Aussies are trying to scrimp and save wherever possible, but the money we're not spending on going out or takeaway food usually just funnels back to the supermarkets,' Financial Expert David Koch said last month.

'And when prices go up, they seldom come down as we all get used to paying more for less. The mega-store duopoly doesn't help either as there's less competition to help drive down prices.'

The supermarket giants' response

In light of the boycott demands, Woolworths cited its Low Price program, which covers thousands of products, and emphasised its ongoing effort to reduce prices on 150 key Christmas items.

'We're acutely aware of the pressure that's being placed on Australian families through [the] cost of living increases, whether they are our customers or our team members. And we’re doing more every day to help customers spend less with us,' a spokesperson told a news source.

Similarly, Coles pointed out that it reduced prices on 500 grocery items in August and emphasised that it makes only $2.60 for every $100 spent in its stores.

'At Coles, we believe all Australians should be able to put quality food on the table for their families, and we are always exploring ways to reduce prices on the products we sell,' a Coles spokesperson stated.


Despite these assurances, more than a third of Australians said the rising cost of groceries has had the biggest impact on their household budget and was the biggest financial burden, above mortgage repayments and energy prices, according to a recent Compare the Market survey.

Key Takeaways

  • Some Australian shoppers are urging a boycott of supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths in the lead-up to Christmas amid frustrations over rising prices.
  • Dylan Fragomeni, a Brisbane resident, led the call for a boycott on the retailers' busiest trading days. She suggested shopping at local FoodWorks, IGA, ALDI or farmer's markets instead.
  • Coles and Woolworths have defended their pricing structures, citing their efforts to reduce prices with special offers and initiatives.
  • Over a third of Australians have reported that the increased cost of groceries is the most significant impact on their household budget, superseding mortgage repayments and energy costs.

What are your thoughts on this proposed boycott, members? Have you noticed a significant increase in your grocery bills? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
 
As the festive season approaches, Australians are bracing themselves for its impact on their wallets.

The rising cost of living has been a persistent issue, and this year, it's hitting family budgets harder than ever. In response, some disgruntled shoppers are taking a stand, calling for a boycott of supermarket duopoly Woolworths and Coles over escalating prices.


Brisbane resident Dylan Fragomeni leads the charge, urging shoppers to avoid Woolworths and Coles in the days leading up to Christmas.

These are typically the busiest trading days for these retailers, and Fragomeni believes a boycott could send a powerful message.


View attachment 35822
Shoppers are calling for a Coles and Woolies boycott. Credit: Tara Clark/Pexels


'Buy all your Christmas stuff beforehand, preferably from somewhere else. If you've forgotten anything on the 24th, go to a different shop if you can,' she suggested in a now-viral video uploaded online.

Fragomeni's call to action is fuelled by her belief that Woolworths and Coles, who have posted record profits this year, could do more to prevent price rises on essential items from being passed onto customers.

‘What is normally their most profitable day of the year is going to become their worst day of the year,’ she added.


'Businesses are there to make money, I get that, but in a time where the people who keep your business alive are struggling, it seems a bit unethical to make an increased profit from that,' she argued.

Fragomeni encouraged her followers to shop at local FoodWorks, IGA, farmer's markets or ALDI to 'send a message' to the dominant players.

She herself has changed her shopping habits due to rising prices, opting for ALDI or dollar stores instead.

The call for a boycott has received mixed reactions online, with some people mocking the idea, others expressing support, and many simply resigned to the reality of inflation.

‘As a Coles worker, please, I beg of you, please do this, I’m dreading the 24th so much,’ a social media user commented.

‘Easier for people that have choices. Only got Woolworths in this town,’ another remarked.

‘I'm shopping there, no one tells me what to do,’ a third person said.

‘If we get our stuff at Coles and Woolies before the 24th, aren't they technically still making a profit?’ Someone asked.

‘All the people in the comments complaining that it won’t work but also then complaining about the prices. Okay, if you hate it, why not join in with us and try to do something about it,’ Fragomeni stated.


Fragomeni is not alone in her push, it seems.

On social media, some are promoting a boycott of big supermarkets in December. This effort has gained traction with the help of a recent speech given by Victorian MP Ellen Sandell in state parliament.

'The supermarket duopoly of Coles and Woolworths is ripping people off,' the Greens MP argued. 'Groceries this year across the board are up 10 per cent, outpacing inflation. But you know what else is up? The profits of the supermarkets.'

Queensland independent grocer Skippy's Fresh Frootz has also jumped on board, posting a video supporting the boycott and urging Australians to 'shop independent' this Christmas.

You can watch Fragomeni’s video here:



The rising cost of living and the impact of inflation

Inflation has been unevenly felt across the economy, but consumers are particularly sensitive to price rises in essential items like food and fuel. This has resulted in supermarket giants drawing the ire of some Aussies.

Coles posted a $9.2 billion first (financial) quarter sales revenue, an increase of 4.7 per cent on the same period last year. Meanwhile, Woolworths posted $12.96 billion in food retail sales, an increase of 6.1 per cent.

While the cost of some fresh produce has actually come down in recent months, Aussies are overall buying more groceries and scaling back on eating out.


'Aussies are trying to scrimp and save wherever possible, but the money we're not spending on going out or takeaway food usually just funnels back to the supermarkets,' Financial Expert David Koch said last month.

'And when prices go up, they seldom come down as we all get used to paying more for less. The mega-store duopoly doesn't help either as there's less competition to help drive down prices.'

The supermarket giants' response

In light of the boycott demands, Woolworths cited its Low Price program, which covers thousands of products, and emphasised its ongoing effort to reduce prices on 150 key Christmas items.

'We're acutely aware of the pressure that's being placed on Australian families through [the] cost of living increases, whether they are our customers or our team members. And we’re doing more every day to help customers spend less with us,' a spokesperson told a news source.

Similarly, Coles pointed out that it reduced prices on 500 grocery items in August and emphasised that it makes only $2.60 for every $100 spent in its stores.

'At Coles, we believe all Australians should be able to put quality food on the table for their families, and we are always exploring ways to reduce prices on the products we sell,' a Coles spokesperson stated.


Despite these assurances, more than a third of Australians said the rising cost of groceries has had the biggest impact on their household budget and was the biggest financial burden, above mortgage repayments and energy prices, according to a recent Compare the Market survey.

Key Takeaways

  • Some Australian shoppers are urging a boycott of supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths in the lead-up to Christmas amid frustrations over rising prices.
  • Dylan Fragomeni, a Brisbane resident, led the call for a boycott on the retailers' busiest trading days. She suggested shopping at local FoodWorks, IGA, ALDI or farmer's markets instead.
  • Coles and Woolworths have defended their pricing structures, citing their efforts to reduce prices with special offers and initiatives.
  • Over a third of Australians have reported that the increased cost of groceries is the most significant impact on their household budget, superseding mortgage repayments and energy costs.

What are your thoughts on this proposed boycott, members? Have you noticed a significant increase in your grocery bills? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

It absolutely stinks, the rich want more and more and us poor buggers always have to suffer, it doesn't matter what we say it do the poor always come out the worst no matter how much we pull our belts in
 
I for 1 hope her call to action works, the rabble will all be lighting their torches and gathering their pitchforks. Might then find a car park at the Coles. Other than this woman getting payment from tik tok for the number of view this sort of self centered publicity receives, it will have ABSOLUTELY no effect.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Gsr and Jo Piper3
It has been said before on enough issues, if enough people talked with their feet and took their business elsewhere, companies would get the idea. If the major supermarkets were considerably empty on certain days or consecutive days they would start to get the message. People have the power to make a point if they choose to. Sitting in your chair complaining is pointless!
 
As the festive season approaches, Australians are bracing themselves for its impact on their wallets.

The rising cost of living has been a persistent issue, and this year, it's hitting family budgets harder than ever. In response, some disgruntled shoppers are taking a stand, calling for a boycott of supermarket duopoly Woolworths and Coles over escalating prices.


Brisbane resident Dylan Fragomeni leads the charge, urging shoppers to avoid Woolworths and Coles in the days leading up to Christmas.

These are typically the busiest trading days for these retailers, and Fragomeni believes a boycott could send a powerful message.


View attachment 35822
Shoppers are calling for a Coles and Woolies boycott. Credit: Tara Clark/Pexels


'Buy all your Christmas stuff beforehand, preferably from somewhere else. If you've forgotten anything on the 24th, go to a different shop if you can,' she suggested in a now-viral video uploaded online.

Fragomeni's call to action is fuelled by her belief that Woolworths and Coles, who have posted record profits this year, could do more to prevent price rises on essential items from being passed onto customers.

‘What is normally their most profitable day of the year is going to become their worst day of the year,’ she added.


'Businesses are there to make money, I get that, but in a time where the people who keep your business alive are struggling, it seems a bit unethical to make an increased profit from that,' she argued.

Fragomeni encouraged her followers to shop at local FoodWorks, IGA, farmer's markets or ALDI to 'send a message' to the dominant players.

She herself has changed her shopping habits due to rising prices, opting for ALDI or dollar stores instead.

The call for a boycott has received mixed reactions online, with some people mocking the idea, others expressing support, and many simply resigned to the reality of inflation.

‘As a Coles worker, please, I beg of you, please do this, I’m dreading the 24th so much,’ a social media user commented.

‘Easier for people that have choices. Only got Woolworths in this town,’ another remarked.

‘I'm shopping there, no one tells me what to do,’ a third person said.

‘If we get our stuff at Coles and Woolies before the 24th, aren't they technically still making a profit?’ Someone asked.

‘All the people in the comments complaining that it won’t work but also then complaining about the prices. Okay, if you hate it, why not join in with us and try to do something about it,’ Fragomeni stated.


Fragomeni is not alone in her push, it seems.

On social media, some are promoting a boycott of big supermarkets in December. This effort has gained traction with the help of a recent speech given by Victorian MP Ellen Sandell in state parliament.

'The supermarket duopoly of Coles and Woolworths is ripping people off,' the Greens MP argued. 'Groceries this year across the board are up 10 per cent, outpacing inflation. But you know what else is up? The profits of the supermarkets.'

Queensland independent grocer Skippy's Fresh Frootz has also jumped on board, posting a video supporting the boycott and urging Australians to 'shop independent' this Christmas.

You can watch Fragomeni’s video here:



The rising cost of living and the impact of inflation

Inflation has been unevenly felt across the economy, but consumers are particularly sensitive to price rises in essential items like food and fuel. This has resulted in supermarket giants drawing the ire of some Aussies.

Coles posted a $9.2 billion first (financial) quarter sales revenue, an increase of 4.7 per cent on the same period last year. Meanwhile, Woolworths posted $12.96 billion in food retail sales, an increase of 6.1 per cent.

While the cost of some fresh produce has actually come down in recent months, Aussies are overall buying more groceries and scaling back on eating out.


'Aussies are trying to scrimp and save wherever possible, but the money we're not spending on going out or takeaway food usually just funnels back to the supermarkets,' Financial Expert David Koch said last month.

'And when prices go up, they seldom come down as we all get used to paying more for less. The mega-store duopoly doesn't help either as there's less competition to help drive down prices.'

The supermarket giants' response

In light of the boycott demands, Woolworths cited its Low Price program, which covers thousands of products, and emphasised its ongoing effort to reduce prices on 150 key Christmas items.

'We're acutely aware of the pressure that's being placed on Australian families through [the] cost of living increases, whether they are our customers or our team members. And we’re doing more every day to help customers spend less with us,' a spokesperson told a news source.

Similarly, Coles pointed out that it reduced prices on 500 grocery items in August and emphasised that it makes only $2.60 for every $100 spent in its stores.

'At Coles, we believe all Australians should be able to put quality food on the table for their families, and we are always exploring ways to reduce prices on the products we sell,' a Coles spokesperson stated.


Despite these assurances, more than a third of Australians said the rising cost of groceries has had the biggest impact on their household budget and was the biggest financial burden, above mortgage repayments and energy prices, according to a recent Compare the Market survey.

Key Takeaways

  • Some Australian shoppers are urging a boycott of supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths in the lead-up to Christmas amid frustrations over rising prices.
  • Dylan Fragomeni, a Brisbane resident, led the call for a boycott on the retailers' busiest trading days. She suggested shopping at local FoodWorks, IGA, ALDI or farmer's markets instead.
  • Coles and Woolworths have defended their pricing structures, citing their efforts to reduce prices with special offers and initiatives.
  • Over a third of Australians have reported that the increased cost of groceries is the most significant impact on their household budget, superseding mortgage repayments and energy costs.

What are your thoughts on this proposed boycott, members? Have you noticed a significant increase in your grocery bills? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

It’s not convenient for me to shop elsewhere. The parking and trolley bays are easily accessible at my shopping mall. IGA and Food works don’t offer the above.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Gsr
I might have to shop somewhere other than Woolies the way things are going. There are so many empty spots on the shelves at our local store, not sure what the problem is
 
  • Like
Reactions: Gsr
Well we have no problems in boycotting Woolies as our local one is closed until sometime in the new year as the major shopping centre is doing a large modification which includes Woolies bakers Delight a fish shop a a Deli and a large green grocery among several other stores.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Gsr
I think it’s a good idea, will make parking and shopping much better with all those people boycotting Coles and woolies. Bring it on.
 
It has been said before on enough issues, if enough people talked with their feet and took their business elsewhere, companies would get the idea. If the major supermarkets were considerably empty on certain days or consecutive days they would start to get the message. People have the power to make a point if they choose to. Sitting in your chair complaining is pointless!
You don't know how much profit places like IGA and Aldi make, as they don't declare these figures. They could be even worse.
 
What does it matter her age? If you don't want to that's fine. Just hope there are more who do. At least we can give it a go.
I agree, at least she's having a go and not just continually whinging about the prices.
Seems those who whinge the loudest are the Coles and Woolies shoppers but there not willing to go out of their way to go elsewhere.
They complain about the cost of petrol, yet I have family members who won't travel ten minutes down the road to an Aldi store because of the petrol. The petrol is negligible
compared to the savings
They drive me nuts, I have to drive over 200kms round trip to shop, so not very sympathetic to their whinging.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Leoniey

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×