Wed Sep 25 07:11:41 UTC 2024: ## Woolworths CEO Confronted Over Alleged Price Gouging During Cost-of-Living Crisis
**Wollongong, NSW:** A heated exchange between a Woolworths shopper and CEO Amanda Bardwell has sparked outrage over alleged price gouging during Australia’s cost-of-living crisis. Megan Guy, a local resident, confronted Bardwell at the Warrawong store, demanding answers about the supermarket’s pricing practices.
Guy, in a video shared on TikTok, accused Woolworths of taking advantage of struggling Australians. “Millions of people in Australia right now have to skip meals to survive… can you sleep at night knowing that?” she questioned Bardwell.
This incident comes amidst a legal battle between the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and Woolworths and Coles, who are accused of misleading customers with fake discount pricing. The ACCC alleges that both supermarkets inflated product prices before offering “discounts” that were actually below the peak but higher than the initial price.
Bardwell, in her first weeks on the job, acknowledged Guy’s concerns, stating that Woolworths is “doing everything we can” to offer competitive prices and support customers. Guy, however, expressed disbelief, demanding that the supermarket chain sacrifice profits to alleviate the financial strain on Australians.
The ACCC’s legal action against Woolworths and Coles could result in “significant” penalties if successful. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the alleged behavior, calling it “un-Australian” and “completely unacceptable.”
Coles has defended itself, attributing price increases to inflationary pressures. Woolworths, in a statement, maintained that its “Prices Dropped” program aims to provide value to customers.
The allegations involve 266 products for Woolworths and 245 products for Coles, sold over several months. The public outcry highlights the growing frustration with rising costs and the perceived manipulation of prices by major supermarket chains. This confrontation serves as a powerful reminder of the real-world impact of alleged price gouging on everyday Australians.
First Piper 