'What a crock': Woolworths to make changes in checkout systems after backlash
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Supermarkets adapt to their consumers' behaviour and the changing technology over time.
However, some of these changes earned criticism from shoppers for various reasons.
In a move met with a collective sigh of relief, one of Australia's leading supermarket chains made a significant change to its in-store experience.
After facing a wave of customer backlash, Woolworths stopped asking customers to donate to charities at self-service checkouts.
This decision marked a pivotal shift in the company's approach to charitable donations.
Woolworths' self-service checkouts used to prompt shoppers to round up their total to the nearest dollar.
The extra change will then go to one of the supermarket's charity partners.
While the intention was to support worthy causes, it sparked controversy among customers.
The frustration was palpable across social media, where shoppers expressed their discontent and criticism towards the supermarket giant.
'A company that has turned over massive profits in recent years is asking you to round up on your purchase to donate to various charities, what a crock,' one disgruntled customer said.
'We are struggling to put food on our plates with the prices supermarkets charge, so why don't they donate money and food themselves,' another echoed the sentiment.
Woolworths quietly removed the donation prompt in December 2023 following a Christmas appeal with OzHarvest.
Woolworths recognised that the timing and method of soliciting donations were not resonating well with customers.
Despite the backlash, some shoppers still supported the donation feature, viewing it as a harmless way to contribute to meaningful causes.
'I have no issue with this. It's less than $1, and it's usually for a good cause,' one commented.
A Woolworths spokesperson also acknowledged the role customers played in raising funds through the round-up option.
'We would like to thank our customers for their ongoing support of these community initiatives,' the spokesperson stated, emphasising the positive impact of the donations.
While the prompt at self-service checkouts may be gone, Woolworths continues its charitable efforts.
The supermarket giant has other ways for customers to donate, including a $2 token in-store.
This token allows shoppers to contribute to charity more traditionally and voluntarily.
This change at Woolworths was a testament to the power of consumer voice and the importance of corporate social responsibility.
As we navigate the complexities of the current economy, it's heartening to see a major retailer listening to its customers and adapting its practices accordingly.
It's a move that not only respects the financial realities of shoppers but also preserves the spirit of giving on terms that are comfortable for everyone involved.
Have you ever felt pressured to donate at the checkout? Do you prefer the option to contribute in other ways? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
However, some of these changes earned criticism from shoppers for various reasons.
In a move met with a collective sigh of relief, one of Australia's leading supermarket chains made a significant change to its in-store experience.
After facing a wave of customer backlash, Woolworths stopped asking customers to donate to charities at self-service checkouts.
This decision marked a pivotal shift in the company's approach to charitable donations.
Woolworths' self-service checkouts used to prompt shoppers to round up their total to the nearest dollar.
The extra change will then go to one of the supermarket's charity partners.
Woolworths customers can now donate in other ways outside of the self-checkout option. Image Credit: Shutterstock/Daria Nipot
While the intention was to support worthy causes, it sparked controversy among customers.
The frustration was palpable across social media, where shoppers expressed their discontent and criticism towards the supermarket giant.
'A company that has turned over massive profits in recent years is asking you to round up on your purchase to donate to various charities, what a crock,' one disgruntled customer said.
'We are struggling to put food on our plates with the prices supermarkets charge, so why don't they donate money and food themselves,' another echoed the sentiment.
Woolworths quietly removed the donation prompt in December 2023 following a Christmas appeal with OzHarvest.
Woolworths recognised that the timing and method of soliciting donations were not resonating well with customers.
Despite the backlash, some shoppers still supported the donation feature, viewing it as a harmless way to contribute to meaningful causes.
'I have no issue with this. It's less than $1, and it's usually for a good cause,' one commented.
A Woolworths spokesperson also acknowledged the role customers played in raising funds through the round-up option.
'We would like to thank our customers for their ongoing support of these community initiatives,' the spokesperson stated, emphasising the positive impact of the donations.
While the prompt at self-service checkouts may be gone, Woolworths continues its charitable efforts.
The supermarket giant has other ways for customers to donate, including a $2 token in-store.
This token allows shoppers to contribute to charity more traditionally and voluntarily.
This change at Woolworths was a testament to the power of consumer voice and the importance of corporate social responsibility.
As we navigate the complexities of the current economy, it's heartening to see a major retailer listening to its customers and adapting its practices accordingly.
It's a move that not only respects the financial realities of shoppers but also preserves the spirit of giving on terms that are comfortable for everyone involved.
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