WORLD · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Woolworths Increases Prices on 'Family Staples' During 'Price Freeze' Promotion
WHY IT MATTERS
The price hike undermines Woolworths' promise to help customers with the cost of living, highlighting concerns about corporate integrity and transparency in the face of economic challenges.
What happened
Australian supermarket giant Woolworths has been accused of raising prices on at least four key products during its 'Price Freeze' promotion. The three-month campaign, launched on 1 May, aimed to help customers with the cost of living by freezing prices on 300 'family staples'. However, analysis by CW Scanner shows that Woolworths increased prices on chicken fillets, potatoes, and donuts within days of starting the promotion.
The price hike on chicken fillets was particularly notable, with a 33% increase. The supermarket chain's pricing data, compiled by CW Scanner, reveals the price increases on these popular items.
The move has sparked criticism, with customers expecting a genuine price freeze during the promotional period. Woolworths has not commented on the price increases, but the incident has raised questions about the company's commitment to helping customers with the cost of living.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Woolworths increased prices of at least four ‘family staples’ during ‘Price Freeze’ promotion
The Guardian · Catie McLeod Consumer affairs reporter · Discovery only; Guardian content licensing terms apply