Woolworths has denied accusations it will not support Anzac Day in stores this year, after the Returned Servicemen League of Australia (RSL) released a controversial statement.
On March 13, the RSL said that Woolworths would no longer sell its commemorative Anzac biscuit tins in stores – making it the only major supermarket to not stock the annual buy.
“Each year, the RSL creates special limited-edition Anzac biscuit tins with unique designs that are available in participating Coles, ALDIs, Australia Post and independent stores,” the RSL said on its website.
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“Please note that Woolworths will not be stocking the limited edition tins this year.”
The post led to significant backlash on social media.
“SHAME ON WOOLIES! Not supporting the RSL with their biscuit tins year!” one Facebook user said.
Another added: “You are a disgrace #wokeworths Now not supporting RSL. Would say you are barred. But we have already done that – after selling our shares.”
However Woolworths has hit back at the claims, explaining that while it is not stocking the RSL’s commemorative biscuit tins, it is offering another exclusive Anzac Day item for sale.
A spokesperson for the supermarket has confirmed that it will sell Anzac Day badges in all stores as a way of supporting the charity — and is the only retailer to do so.
All year round, Woolworths also sells Bakers’ Finest Anzac Biscuits — the actual biscuits included inside the limited edition tins — which are endorsed by the RSL and generate revenue to support returned servicemen and their families.
The RSL has since updated its website to acknowledge the move.
“Each year, the RSL creates special limited-edition Anzac biscuit tins with unique designs that are available in participating Coles, ALDIs, Australia Post, and independent stores,” the site now reads.
“Please note that Woolworths will not be stocking the limited-edition tins this year but they will be selling Anzac Appeal badges and supporting veterans and the RSL in this way. Badges will be in store after Easter.”
A Woolworths spokesperson has told 7NEWS.com.au that the supermarket is committed to supporting the Anzac appeals.
“Our teams nationwide are pleased to again be proudly supporting this year’s ANZAC Appeal as we’re the only supermarket to stock the appeal’s badges with all funds for sales going to the RSL,” the spokesperson said.
“We sell Bakers Finest Anzac biscuits in our stores all year round, this product is endorsed by the RSL and generates revenue for the RSL to support veterans and their families.
“We’ve been proud partners of the RSL for the past 10 years, supporting the ANZAC Appeal in April and the Poppy Appeal in November.
“Almost $13 million has been raised at Woolworths in the past 10 years for those appeals.”
A spokesperson from RSL Victoria has said the group values its partnership with Woolworths.
“The RSL and Woolworths have an ongoing and valued partnership, providing ongoing support to veterans and their families across Australia,” the spokesperson said.
“Over the last 10 years, Woolworths has raised more than $13 million during both our ANZAC and Poppy Appeals by making badges available for purchase in stores, providing direct and crucial support to the veteran community nationwide.
“This support continues in 2024, with Woolworths once again stocking ANZAC and Poppy Appeal badges for purchase.
“ANZAC Appeal badges will be on sale in your local Woolworths store in the next few days.”