Woolworths is receiving backlash from customers who want to celebrate Australia Day, as the company recently announced that it will not be selling any merchandise related to the controversial celebration.
The supermarket chain has confirmed that there will be no Australia Day-themed merchandise available in its supermarkets or Big W stores for this year’s public holiday.
They mentioned a gradual decrease in demand for the merchandise over the years and a broader conversation about the January 26 date and its significance to various parts of the community is what led to this decision.
“While Australian flags are sold within BIG W all year round, we don’t have any additional themed merchandise available to purchase in-store in our Supermarkets or BIG W ahead of Australia Day,” a spokesperson said.
“We know many people like to use this day as a time to get together and we offer a huge variety of products to help customers mark the day as they choose.”
That choice has angered some right-wing politicians. Shadow treasurer Angus Taylor expressed disappointment and questioned the constant desire to divide us. He referred to the Voice referendum failure last year as evidence that Australia is a “united nation” proud of its identity.
“Australians are proud of their country for the most part and proud of our identity, and they want to see us as a united nation,” Taylor told Channel 9.
