Vikki Campion: Family upset by Woolworths decision not to sell Anzac biscuit tins
Woolworths’ decision to stop selling limited edition Anzac biscuit tins is a kick in the guts to families who incorporated it into their commemorations for our our country’s bravest, writes Vikki Campion.
Opinion
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Every year, one Valla family puts out a display of limited-edition Anzac biscuit tins to honour their Pop, whose framed picture takes pride of place between them.
These Anzac biscuit tins, more than just affordable collector items, are a poignant tribute.
They form a shrine on the street atop a red tablecloth, adorned with poppies and rosemary, a symbol of remembrance for their father and grandfather.
They remember him not just as a man in uniform, but as a courageous defender of our freedom.
This year, the Mitchell family from Valla, on the Mid North Coast, who have been collecting these limited-edition Anzac biscuit tins to honour their Pop, will have nothing from Woolworths to add to their collection.
The grocer’s decision to back away from Anzac Day has not only disappointed the family, but also taken away a significant part of their annual tradition.
Woolworths’ political strategists are arguing in emails to elected members and senators that the biscuit tins, which honour the ultimate sacrifice of veterans injured and killed defending Australia, are a burden on their business.
It was a cute excuse when this week, the AEC disclosures on the referendum revealed Woolworths has money to burn when it wants to.
This contradiction in their actions, where they claim to be burdened by the sale of Anzac biscuit tins but can afford significant political donations to the Yes campaign, is hard to ignore.
It’s disheartening to see Woolworths – a company that was one of the biggest donors to the Yes campaign, contributing a staggering $1.56m to divide Australia – refuse to support those who unite us.
In defending its decision with claims the commemorative tins don’t sell well, Woolworths is saying the fresh food people need to prioritise profit over honouring veterans.
Pam Mitchell, the matriarch at Valla, will still have new tins in her display this year – she will just be shopping elsewhere to get them.
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