Woolies responds after product backlash

Supermarket giant Woolworths has responded to backlash of its early arrival of Easter products, after hot cross buns and Easter eggs were spotted on shelves just a day after Christmas.

The treats, which are traditionally sold closer to the Easter period, appear to be hitting supermarket shelves earlier and earlier each year.

This week, a Woolworths customer in Mosman, in Sydney’s north, shared a photo of Easter eggs to social media, urging the supermarket giant to “give it a break”.

Other shoppers were left stunned by the move, with some customers noting they spotted hot cross buns on shelves as early as Boxing Day, some three months before Easter.

“Just a day after Christmas and voila – hot cross buns are already on the shelves!” one shopper posted to social media.

“Ridiculous, at least let’s get Christmas over with first,” another person added.

However, as the foodie debate continues online, a Woolworths spokesperson said they know their customers “appreciate the opportunity to plan their Easter celebrations in advance”.

“While the majority of Easter products don’t go on sale until March, by offering a small selection from January each year, we aim to provide our early-planning customers with the flexibility to spread out their spending over a longer period,” a Woolworths spokesperson told NewsWire.

“Of course it’s also a great chance to savour our seasonal favourites in the lead-up to Easter.”

In its first month of sale, Woolworths sell more than two million units of easter egg chocolates, however, the full Easter range is not made available till march.

Woolworths also confirmed to NewsWire last week their hot cross buns had well and truly launched in all stores nationwide.

“When it comes to hot cross buns, Aussies love all different varieties both traditional and non-traditional, which is why we’ve brought a range to stores this year that serves up something for everyone,” a spokesman said.

The supermarket giant has also introduced new hot cross bun flavours such as caramilk and fairy bread, which will sit alongside its more traditional flavours such as fruit, chocolate and apple and cinnamon.

But while some shoppers were outraged by the move, others were delighted they get to enjoy the Easter treats for more months out of the year.

“Aldi have them all year round and have for two years now. I like them better in winter than on a warm Easter weekend,” one user said.