‘Couldn’t possibly’: Woolworths stocks Christmas pudding in August

It may still be August, but more and more stores — including Woolworths and Costco — have started rolling out products not expected until Christmas.

As August comes to a close, Christmas stock has started popping up in supermarkets and department stores, much to the surprise of many.

A photo has emerged on Reddit featuring rows of salted caramel pudding, chocolate sponge pudding and matured Christmas pudding at Woolworths on Sunday.

Shoppers were a mix of shock at the early arrival, while others were keen to embrace it.

“Because “why the f*** not?” one social media user asked on the thread.

Another added: I fully expect Hot Cross Buns to be on the shelves next week then.”

One said: “Still makes me excited because fruit pudding and cake are a gift from God.”

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Woolworths has introduced ‘new’ Christmas products into store in August. Picture: Reddit/NYE Expert

Meanwhile, others were less than impressed with the rollout of festive products.

One person said: “How is it that every single year, there are still people this stunned by capitalism doing its thing. You’re gonna complain about Easter eggs being sold on Boxing Day next.”

Another added: “I noticed a display at my local post office the other day saying ‘spread the merry’, and had to double take, thinking it couldn’t possibly be Christmas crap already … it was.

“Apparently I’ve now been out of retail long enough that I’ve forgotten their bulls**t ways.”

A third added: “What about Halloween?! I don’t even partake in it but aren’t the supermarkets usually doing things based on whichever holiday/event thing is next?”

A Woolworths spokesperson has revealed that it’s all about minimising waste this festive season.

“It’s only a few months until Christmas, and we know many of our customers start planning for the festive and entertaining season early on,” the spokesperson told news.com.au.

“With cost of living and sustainability in mind, we’re expecting customers to be looking for more ways to save and minimise waste this Christmas.

“Some of our customers like to purchase products early and have them stocked away to help spread out their Christmas spend. Others like to taste test products to ensure they hit the spot for their big Christmas feast.”

Not everyone was impressed with Woolworths’ Christmas released. Picture: David Clark

News.com.au understands that demands for Fruit Mince Pies are already up a whopping 206 per cent on last year, with Fruit Cakes are up 102 per cent and Puddings are up 65 per cent.

Woolworths aren’t the only retailer who has already introduced their Christmas stock, with major stores such as Costco advertising their Christmas tree range, as well as other ornaments.

Costco has started selling Christmas trees. Picture: Facebook/Christmas Mums

The majority of people were over the moon at the early introduction of one of the central Christmas decorations.

“Yesssss, not sure if it’s at Perth yet but I’m so keen when it gets in. Gonna clear the store out,” one person commented.

One added: “Oh no I need someone to take me Costco shopping lol.”

A third added: “Does this mean I can decorate the house now.”

Only a small handful were shocked that Christmas products were out “already”.

Patrick Noone, Managing Director of Costco, told news.com.au: “Costco stocks Christmas items earlier than other retailers so members have the opportunity to plan for the festive season ahead.

“Christmas items typically land in warehouses from August, so members can expect to find new and exciting decor, gifts, food and more each time they visit in the lead-up to Christmas. “As these items are seasonal, they are only available while stocks last. For this reason, we encourage members to purchase these seasonal items as they see them – what’s there on one visit may not be there the next.”

Elsewhere, some social media users have reported seeing Christmas stock at Target and Bunnings as well.