Shopper chaos: Adrian Portelli to give away $150,000 worth of groceries
Authorities and shopping centre staff are on alert for potential chaos at two Western Sydney shopping centres this week after an Aussie property mogul announced he would be giving thousands of dollars worth of groceries away for free.
NSW
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Authorities and shopping centre staff are on alert for potential chaos at two Western Sydney shopping centres this week after an Aussie property mogul announced he would be giving away thousands of dollars worth of groceries for free.
Adrian Portelli, known to most as the buyer behind a series of homes on The Block, wrote on Instagram he would be giving Western Sydney residents $150,000 worth of groceries at two Coles stores in Penrith and Fairfield West.
“Sydney share to those that need help,” Portelli wrote.
“I’m putting down a total $150,000 tab at these locations tomorrow.”
This is the second time this week Portelli has opened his wallet for others, with thousands of locals queuing up for a similar giveaway in Glenorchy, Tasmania.
Following that event’s popularity, NSW Police said they “were aware” of the event and will be monitoring the two stores on Tuesday.
Coles told the Telegraph they had hired extra security to keep the crowds under control.
“Our team member and customer safety is our priority during this generous giveaway, so we have engaged additional security to ensure any queue for gift cards will be properly managed,” a Coles spokeswoman said.
Mayor of Fairfield City Frank Carbone said he was grateful for the support for his community, and the turnout would be “huge”.
“Everyone is doing it tough,” Mr Carbone said.
“I am so grateful he has chosen to help our area and community in this time.”
Portelli wasn’t met with the same reception by everyone in the community, calling out critics who have labelled the giveaway as a popularity and tax write-off.
“This is probably why people in my situation, financial situation, don’t go out and help more, because they get absolutely grilled when they do try do something nice,” he said.
“Trust me, if I really wanted to write-off tax, there’s much easier ways to do it, and better ways that financially benefit me.”
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