Australian Supermarkets Roll Out Christmas Treats in August
Woolworths has released its first round of Christmas treats – in August – hot on the heels of Coles, where festive favourites hit shelves in July .
Retailer Rationale:
"A lot of our customers love getting a head start," a Woolworths spokesperson told nine.com.au. "Whether they're trying to spread the cost of the holidays over a few months, locking in their favourite fruit cakes early, or just eager for a taste of festive flavours, there's genuine interest from day one" .
Consumer Reaction:
Some shoppers embrace early Christmas treats, appreciating the ability to spread costs
Others are less pleased, with one shopper commenting: "I thought Boxing Day hot cross buns was f...ed up enough"
Consumer expert Gavin Northey from Griffith University explained: "Retailers often release seasonal products outside of peak sales periods as a 'soft launch' to gauge interest in different products and pricing in particular" .