Woolworths has backflipped on its decision to ban Invasion Day (also known as Australia Day) merchandise, announcing plans to celebrate the holiday this year “as a team” and with “customers.”
The supermarket giant will now sell selected Australia Day-themed products in stores.
This reversal comes after the company’s move last year, when it decided not to stock any Australia Day merchandise ahead of the public holiday.
Last January, Woolworths explained that the move was due to a “gradual decline in demand” for such products over previous years, describing it as a business decision.
At that time, the supermarket giant announced it would no longer offer items like themed paper plates, thongs, and decorations.
Woolworths to Offer Australia Day Merchandise Again
However, in a significant backflip, Woolworths will now offer flags in stores, and its online shops will feature a broader range of Australia Day merchandise.
The supermarket chain, which also owns Big W, announced it would sell Australian flag-themed merchandise online, including items such as hats, sunglasses and a “clip-on ribbon.”
“While we did make changes to our merchandise range last Australia Day due to decline in demand in our stores, we listened and recognised that many customers and teams wanted us to do more to help them celebrate the day,” a Woolworths Group spokesperson said in a statement.
The ‘fresh food people’ supermarket chain have also stated that they will celebrate January 26th through the “lens of great Australian food that is perfect for the day.” Meanwhile, BIG W will highlight products “perfect for family and friends coming together over the Australia Day long weekend.”
“Our store team members are also welcome to celebrate the day in-store. We respect everyone’s choices in how they choose to spend the day,” the spokesperson said.
“Our position is aligned with the theme for the day from the National Australia Day Council – reflect, respect and celebrate,” they added.
Growing Calls to Reconsider January 26 as Australia Day
There have been increasing calls to reconsider January 26 as Australia Day, with many advocating for the date to be changed or even abolished altogether.
Critics argue that the day, which marks the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, symbolises the beginning of British colonisation and the invasion of Indigenous lands, making it a painful reminder for many Indigenous Australians.
They believe any celebration of Australia should not be tied to a day that commemorates colonisation.
Retailers Divide Over Australia Day Merchandise Decision
Kmart has refrained from stocking Australia Day merchandise for the past two years, while Aldi confirmed last year that it would no longer sell items like T-shirts and thongs in the lead up to the January 26 public holiday.
Coles, however, stated that it would “continue to stock a range of summer entertaining merchandise throughout January,” as it has in previous years.
The retailer added that the range would include items for customers looking to host BBQs, parties, and picnics, as well as for those attending sporting events like cricket and tennis, in addition to catering for the public holiday weekend.
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