As seasoned shoppers, we've seen our fair share of changes over the years, but it seems our beloved Woolworths supermarket is kicking up a storm with some very recent alterations to their Delivery Unlimited service.

So how will these changes impact our online shopping routines?

Just when we thought we'd seen it all, this latest news follows hot on the heels of the widely criticised revamp of Woolworths' Everyday Rewards Extra program, which sent long-standing customers reeling from the shock of reduced benefits.

As if that wasn't enough, Delivery Unlimited subscribers are now up in arms over fresh correspondence from the retail giant detailing further modifications to the popular service.

Woolworths has been slammed after making two major changes to its Delivery Unlimited service. Credit: Woolworths.

First and foremost, the minimum spend for Woolworths delivery orders is set to increase from $50 to a steeper $75. Alongside this seemingly innocent alteration, another unwelcome surprise awaits: Delivery Unlimited subscribers will now be charged for bags with their orders!

In a message to subscribers, Woolworths explained, 'The minimum spend threshold will increase from $50 to $75. This means you will get free Same or Next Day delivery on all orders of $75 or more, and discounting Delivery Now fees on orders of $75 or more.'

But they didn't stop there, adding that 'your Delivery Unlimited subscription will no longer include bag fees for Woolworths Online orders. This means that the fee for paper or reusable bags will be added to Woolworths orders. This will be a fee of $1 per order for reusable bags or $2 per order for paper bags.'

Woolworths has cited rising fuel costs as the driving force behind these changes while somewhat ruefully reminding customers that the subscription cost itself was halved in 2021. However, this explanation and silver lining have done little to soothe the indignation of many shoppers who've taken to social media to air their grievances.

One disgruntled customer chimed in with, 'Not happy with the price increase and benefits loss with the rewards and Unlimited delivery subscription, especially with the $907m profit you made this half year. Going to be losing customers for this.'

Another lamented the additional bag costs, stating, 'Woolworths, are you trying to drive your customers away?', and continued to express their disappointment as a long-term patron of the store.

Some subscribers have gone so far as to threaten the cancellation of their memberships in response to these contentious changes – not exactly the outcome Woolworths may have desired when implementing the new policies.

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In light of all this news, a Woolworths spokesperson has confirmed the changes in a statement and offered options for customers to avoid paying bag fees: 'Rising fuel prices and other costs have required us to review our Delivery Unlimited offer. While we are increasing the minimum spend for orders from $50 to $75, the price of our monthly and annual subscriptions remains the same.'

They went on to say: 'Bag fees will no longer be included in the subscription price, and there will be a $1 fee for reusable bags or $2 for paper bags. This change brings bag fees in line with our other online shopping options. To avoid bag fees for Direct to Boot or pick up, the groceries can be delivered to a customer's vehicle for them to pack into their own reusable bags.'

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths supermarket has come under fire over two new changes to its Delivery Unlimited service.
• The supermarket has confirmed that it is increasing the minimum spend for Woolworths delivery from $50 to $75.
• Delivery Unlimited subscribers will also now be charged for bags with their orders.
• The news has been met with anger from some Woolworths shoppers, who have shared their unhappiness on social media.

So, Seniors Discount Club members, we leave it to you to decide whether to stick with Woolworths or explore other options for your future online grocery shopping endeavours. But rest assured; we will keep you informed of any further developments in this saga. And as always, happy shopping – online or otherwise!

 

[erolpresboy1988]

This Woolworths saga is like a soap opera, ain't it? First, the Everyday Rewards thing, and now this. SMH! I feel ya - it's like they're throwing curveballs one after the other. Change is inevitable, but c'mon, not at the cost of loyal customers. It's like they're remixing everything we loved about 'em.
Speaking of changes and shipping, ever dived into how businesses manage stuff like international shipping? I recently read up on international shipping magento, and it's wild how complex it gets! Might be interesting to see how big companies like Woolworths navigate these waters.

 

[IAN3005]

This Woolworths saga is like a soap opera, ain't it? First, the Everyday Rewards thing and now this. SMH! I feel ya, it's like they're throwing curveballs one after the other. Change is inevitable, but c'mon, not at the cost of loyal customers. It's like they're remixing everything we loved about 'em.

Give them (and Coles) the big flick..... I did more the 20 years ago. I only go into their stores to get a laugh at the pricing.....

 

[wendell]

I fail to see why I should have to pay for bags when I have a small mountain here from previous deliveries. There should be some way for them to be re-used for my deliveries, I would rather pay for that than new bags each time. a agree

 

[wendell]

I fail to see why I should have to pay for bags when I have a small mountain here from previous deliveries. There should be some way for them to be re-used for my deliveries, I would rather pay for that than new bags each time.

I agree , coles is the same $1.50 for paper bags every week and they are mounting up just to throw in recycle. I ask people but they don’t want them How many bags can you use

I fail to see why I should have to pay for bags when I have a small mountain here from previous deliveries. There should be some way for them to be re-used for my deliveries, I would rather pay for that than new bags each time.

 

[Phantom55]

when will people wake up..paper bags in the volume these stores use cost about 3 cents maxi, including handling, plus the money they save in eliminating the old plastic bags these paper bags now become a PRODUCT retailing at 500% markup,10000 per day per store,..bags will become their most profitable line(and they choose how many you buy) you cant blame them for treating us like we are stupid BUT we are...When I shop I only buy what I can carry...I Do save a lot I shop a couple of times a weekend never buy green grocery items (They don't last long out of the freezer)

 

[Boss1949]

WWE are so sick of the total disregard woolworths have for their customers. They recently changed their policy for their click/collect and home delivery customers. We are insurance customers with them as well so get 10% discount on our order each month. Now can only get discount if we physically visit the store. I’m in a wheelchair and it is difficult for my wife 73 to lug the wheelchair in and out of car. Same with 1000’s of disabled people. Contacted Woolworths and was basically told “ suck it up sunshine” . Now shopping has become a real chore. Good old Woolies throwing heaps of oldies and handicapped people on the scrap heap. Unfortunately we are just whistling in the wind because they don’t care.

 

[IAN3005]

when will people wake up..paper bags in the volume these stores use cost about 3 cents maxi, including handling, plus the money they save in eliminating the old plastic bags these paper bags now become a PRODUCT retailing at 500% markup,10000 per day per store,..bags will become their most profitable line(and they choose how many you buy) you cant blame them for treating us like we are stupid BUT we are...When I shop I only buy what I can carry...I Do save a lot I shop a couple of times a weekend never buy green grocery items (They don't last long out of the freezer)

I use a shopping basket.... never have payed for and never will pay for a bag. Over my dead body.....