Woolworths Faces Backlash Over Removal of Norco Milk From Sydney Metro Stores
Source: The DairyNews
Woolworths is under scrutiny following reports that it will be removing the iconic Australian-produced Norco milk from nearly 100 stores, specifically in metropolitan Sydney. Norco, a farmers’ cooperative established in 1895 and based in Lismore, New South Wales, has been a staple for many Australians, offering a range of dairy products including milk, flavored milk, cheese, and butter.
While Woolworths refutes claims of completely axing Norco products, it acknowledges that the brand will be replaced by other Australian-owned milk brands in Metro stores in Sydney due to lower sales. However, Woolworths asserts that it will continue to stock Norco in the majority of its stores, including Metro stores in Queensland, where the brand enjoys greater demand.
A Woolworths spokesperson clarified the situation, stating, “While we have seen lower demand for Norco in metropolitan Sydney stores, we know they have a very loyal following up north, and we’ve actually increased the range of Norco products in our Queensland stores and New South Wales stores north of Sydney.”
The decision has sparked criticism, with Nationals MP Kevin Hogan urging a boycott of Woolworths and expressing discontent over the reported delisting of Norco. Some customers have voiced their displeasure on social media, with calls for a shift to alternative supermarkets.
Woolworths responded to the backlash, emphasizing its commitment to supporting Australian dairy and maintaining that all its fresh milk is 100% Australian sourced. The available space in Sydney stores, previously occupied by Norco, will now feature other Australian-owned milk brands, including Riverina and Dairy Farmers.
This development comes amid a challenging period for Woolworths, marked by controversies such as the removal of dedicated Australia Day merchandise and ongoing inquiries into supermarket processes. The reported delisting of Norco adds to the list of challenges for the retail giant, prompting some consumers to reconsider their allegiance to the supermarket chain.
A Woolworths spokesperson clarified the situation, stating, “While we have seen lower demand for Norco in metropolitan Sydney stores, we know they have a very loyal following up north, and we’ve actually increased the range of Norco products in our Queensland stores and New South Wales stores north of Sydney.”
The decision has sparked criticism, with Nationals MP Kevin Hogan urging a boycott of Woolworths and expressing discontent over the reported delisting of Norco. Some customers have voiced their displeasure on social media, with calls for a shift to alternative supermarkets.
Woolworths responded to the backlash, emphasizing its commitment to supporting Australian dairy and maintaining that all its fresh milk is 100% Australian sourced. The available space in Sydney stores, previously occupied by Norco, will now feature other Australian-owned milk brands, including Riverina and Dairy Farmers.
This development comes amid a challenging period for Woolworths, marked by controversies such as the removal of dedicated Australia Day merchandise and ongoing inquiries into supermarket processes. The reported delisting of Norco adds to the list of challenges for the retail giant, prompting some consumers to reconsider their allegiance to the supermarket chain.
