Woolworths will once again put Australian flags on its shelves, just months after the supermarket giant decided not to stock Australia Day products.
Woolworths has revealed it will be making Australian flags available to customers ahead of the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games starting later this month, and as a proud Australian retailer, we are delighted to once again be the official fresh food partner of the Australian Olympic and Paralympic teams,” Woolworths said in a statement to staff.
‘As the Australian flag is the official flag of the Australian Olympic Committee and our team competing in Paris, a locally made portable Australian flag, made from durable materials such as wood and polyester, will also be available for customers to purchase in our selected supermarkets and Metro stores.’
National Senator Bridget McKenzie said the move was clearly a money-making attempt.
“They have finally found their patriotism,” he said on the Today show.
“The reason they’re selling these flags is because they see a financial benefit. They’re sponsoring the Olympics. So the more attention they get, the more people will come through the door.”
The measure comes six months later Woolworths has withdrawn all Australia Day merchandise from stores nationwidewhich sparked outrage among customers.
Woolworths to sell Australian flags for Paris Olympics after supermarket boycotts them for Australia Day
The flags will be available throughout the year at Woolworths (stock image)
In a statement sent to stores nationwide, Woolworths said it acknowledged it “disappointed many” when it decided not to sell Australia Day merchandise in January.
“We have heard and accepted that as a proud Australian retailer, many in the community expected us to offer customers the option to purchase the nation’s flag when shopping with us,” the statement said.
Woolworths has announced it will also be introducing a new range of ‘Green and Gold’ bakery products ahead of the Paris Olympics. Image: Woolworths.
Woolworths will now stock the flags all year round. Image: Woolworths.
At the time, a Woolworths Group spokesperson said there had been a “gradual decline” in demand for the merchandise over the years and a “broader discussion” about the January 26 date and “what it means” to different parts of the community.
Woolworths has also revealed it will be launching a limited edition of ‘Green and Gold’ baked goods as part of the retailer’s Olympic festivities.
The range will include yellow doughnuts with green sprinkles, green and gold cupcakes and a smash cake.
For every purchase of the new bakery range, $1 will go to support Paralympics Australia.