Coles and Woolworths have been named among the 2023 recipients of the Shonky Awards by consumer advocate group CHOICE.
The Shonky Awards recognise “the worst products and services” causing “distress, disappointment and difficulty” to Australians. Last year, Qantas took out the top honour.
Here’s the full list of ‘winners’ for the year.
Coles and Woolworths
CHOICE accused Coles and Woolworths of “cashing in on a cost of living crisis”.
It said the supermarket giants didn’t do enough to bring down the cost of groceries for Australians struggling to pay for food.
Coles and Woolworths recorded significant profits for the 2022-2023 financial year. Woolworths posted $1.62 billion, while Coles made $1.1 billion in profits.
Supermarket response
Woolworths told TDA it is “acutely aware” of the pressures facing Australians in a cost-of-living crisis. “We know there’s more to do and that’s why we’ll continue to invest in the future,” a spokesperson said.
Coles told TDA it’s “always looking at ways to reduce prices.”
“For every $100 a customer spends, Coles makes $2.60. This ensures we can continue to employ more than 120,000 Australians, partner with more than 8,000 suppliers and farmers, and support local communities.”
Other ‘Awards’
Online retailer Kogan received a Shonky award for “tricking its customers into a $99 annual subscription” disguised as a default ‘free shipping’ option at its online checkout.
The Shonky Award for ‘data gouging’ went to a platform called RentTech. RentTech requires applicants to submit detailed personal information, and was singled out for causing “angst to Australia’s already stressed-out renter population”.
