Truth behind the ANZAC biscuit controversy: Woolworths sets the record straight
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In the age of social media, misinformation can spread like wildfire, and even the most well-intentioned companies can find themselves at the centre of a controversy.
Recently, Woolworths, one of Australia's leading supermarket chains, found itself in the crosshairs of a social media storm.
The claim is that Woolworths has turned its back on veterans by refusing to sell ANZAC biscuits this year. However, is there any truth to this?
The ANZAC biscuit is more than just a sweet treat; it's a piece of Australian and New Zealand history.
These biscuits, which were originally hardy, savoury, and designed to last the long journey to soldiers abroad, have become a symbol of the ANZAC spirit.
They are particularly prominent around ANZAC Day, when we remember the sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps during World War I, especially at Gallipoli.
The controversy began with a Facebook post on April 3, 2024, saying, ’So Woolworths aren't selling ANZAC BISCUITS this year.’
This post, along with similar ones, spread rapidly across social media platforms, stirring up a storm of indignation.
According to one of the posts, ‘Heard that Woolworths won't sell Anzac biscuits this year. So much for supporting our service people.’
The source of the confusion was a statement from the Returned Services League (RSL)—an organisation supporting former servicemen—which noted that Woolworths would not be stocking the limited-edition ANZAC biscuit tins this year.
‘Please note that Woolworths will not be stocking the limited edition tins this year but they will be selling Anzac Appeal badges and supporting veterans and the RSL in this way,’ they said.
These tins are a part of the RSL's fundraising efforts, and their absence from Woolworths' shelves was enough to spark a backlash.
Far-right Senator Pauline Hanson was quick to condemn Woolworths.
Senator Hanson wrote on social media, ‘I haven't shopped at Woolworths ever since they announced they wouldn't be supporting Australia Day.'
‘Now that I have learned Woolworths has also refused to stock the RSL's special Anzac biscuit tins, it reinforces my original decision.’
Conservative media commentators also criticised the supermarket's decision.
Sky News Australia’s Rowan Dean urged customers, saying, ‘Stop shopping at Woolworths until they stop being political.’
However, Woolworths was also quick to respond to the allegations.
On April 3, the supermarket chain released a statement clarifying that it was still supporting the RSL's Anzac Appeal.
Woolworths highlighted that it had raised $13 million over the past decade for the RSL.
‘As the only supermarket supporting the Appeal, Woolworths customers in-store nationwide will be able to purchase badges and wristbands from this week, with all funds from sales going to the RSL,’ the supermarket giant said.
‘All year-round, customers can also purchase the much-loved Bakers Finest ANZAC biscuits endorsed by the RSL in Woolworths stores, which also generates revenue for the RSL.’
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) visited multiple Woolworths stores across Sydney and discovered that both the RSL's official ANZAC biscuits and memorabilia were available.
As of April 23, the Bakers Finest Rsl Anzac Biscuits 300g ($2.50) were also purchasable online.
The recent controversy surrounding Woolworths' decision has stirred discussions about the significance of ANZAC Day and the appropriate ways to honour it.
While some wrongfully criticised Woolworths for allegedly not offering Anzac-related products, others highlighted instances of respectful commemorations, such as a touching display observed at Coles stores.
Amidst differing opinions on commercial involvement in ANZAC Day, the display at Coles reminds us of the importance of paying tribute with sincerity and reverence.
Have you encountered any similar instances of misinformation? How do you ensure that the news you share is accurate? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Recently, Woolworths, one of Australia's leading supermarket chains, found itself in the crosshairs of a social media storm.
The claim is that Woolworths has turned its back on veterans by refusing to sell ANZAC biscuits this year. However, is there any truth to this?
The ANZAC biscuit is more than just a sweet treat; it's a piece of Australian and New Zealand history.
These biscuits, which were originally hardy, savoury, and designed to last the long journey to soldiers abroad, have become a symbol of the ANZAC spirit.
They are particularly prominent around ANZAC Day, when we remember the sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps during World War I, especially at Gallipoli.
Some social media users FALSELY accused Woolworths of not selling ANZAC biscuits in 2024. Credits: Facebook
The controversy began with a Facebook post on April 3, 2024, saying, ’So Woolworths aren't selling ANZAC BISCUITS this year.’
This post, along with similar ones, spread rapidly across social media platforms, stirring up a storm of indignation.
According to one of the posts, ‘Heard that Woolworths won't sell Anzac biscuits this year. So much for supporting our service people.’
The source of the confusion was a statement from the Returned Services League (RSL)—an organisation supporting former servicemen—which noted that Woolworths would not be stocking the limited-edition ANZAC biscuit tins this year.
‘Please note that Woolworths will not be stocking the limited edition tins this year but they will be selling Anzac Appeal badges and supporting veterans and the RSL in this way,’ they said.
These tins are a part of the RSL's fundraising efforts, and their absence from Woolworths' shelves was enough to spark a backlash.
Far-right Senator Pauline Hanson was quick to condemn Woolworths.
Senator Hanson wrote on social media, ‘I haven't shopped at Woolworths ever since they announced they wouldn't be supporting Australia Day.'
‘Now that I have learned Woolworths has also refused to stock the RSL's special Anzac biscuit tins, it reinforces my original decision.’
Conservative media commentators also criticised the supermarket's decision.
Sky News Australia’s Rowan Dean urged customers, saying, ‘Stop shopping at Woolworths until they stop being political.’
However, Woolworths was also quick to respond to the allegations.
On April 3, the supermarket chain released a statement clarifying that it was still supporting the RSL's Anzac Appeal.
Woolworths highlighted that it had raised $13 million over the past decade for the RSL.
‘As the only supermarket supporting the Appeal, Woolworths customers in-store nationwide will be able to purchase badges and wristbands from this week, with all funds from sales going to the RSL,’ the supermarket giant said.
‘All year-round, customers can also purchase the much-loved Bakers Finest ANZAC biscuits endorsed by the RSL in Woolworths stores, which also generates revenue for the RSL.’
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) visited multiple Woolworths stores across Sydney and discovered that both the RSL's official ANZAC biscuits and memorabilia were available.
As of April 23, the Bakers Finest Rsl Anzac Biscuits 300g ($2.50) were also purchasable online.
The recent controversy surrounding Woolworths' decision has stirred discussions about the significance of ANZAC Day and the appropriate ways to honour it.
While some wrongfully criticised Woolworths for allegedly not offering Anzac-related products, others highlighted instances of respectful commemorations, such as a touching display observed at Coles stores.
Amidst differing opinions on commercial involvement in ANZAC Day, the display at Coles reminds us of the importance of paying tribute with sincerity and reverence.
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