Woolworths removes ‘inappropriate’ store display

The supermarket was forced to act after a Perth customer complained about a “scary” display, claiming it was “not appropriate”.

A Woolworths store has removed its Halloween decorations after a mum slammed the display, claiming they were “not appropriate” for children.

To help customers get in the festive spirit, Woolworths staff are able to create their own individual store displays for different occasions such as Easter, Halloween or Christmas.

In a post on the supermarket’s Facebook page the woman shared a photo of the decorations, which featured a skeleton in a black hooded cloak and fake cobwebs.

“The decorations are not appropriate, can‘t you just dedicate a spot or something? It’s great you have quiet hour but this is not helping at all,” the mum asked.

The mum's complaint sparked massive divide among shoppers. Picture: Woolworths/Facebook.

“Anyone else struggle with their kids when the decorations come out? Mine said, ‘let’s leave and go to IGA instead, they don’t have scary decorations’.”

Her post sparked massive debate among shoppers, with some arguing kids “need to get a grip” if they found the decorations upsetting.

“Is it really scary?” one person asked.

“That‘s not even scary … my eight-year-old would laugh,” another commented.

“I’m sorry but this is a joke,” another said.

“My daughter was always terrified of Father Christmas, maybe Christmas should have been cancelled for the last 11 years just to suit her,” one shopper argued.

The mum's complaint sparked massive divide among shoppers. Picture: Woolworths/Facebook.

“Please leave the decorations up Woolworths, we have had such a crap few years and seeing the decorations out is a nice distraction.”

But some agreed with the mum’s concerns, labelling the decorations “tasteless and inappropriate at the moment”, while another said it also “gave my kid the (sic) nightmares”.

The mum also told 7news.com.au that she was worried the Halloween display could be frightening for children with disabilities.

Woolworths told news.com.au the store had since “amended the display” after receiving the woman’s feedback.

“Our store teams enjoy helping customers celebrate a range of events throughout the year and we encourage them to get in the festive spirit by decorating their store in the lead up to celebrations like Halloween,’ the spokesman said.

“We want all customers to feel comfortable and welcome in our stores, and appreciate this customer's feedback on the decorations at her local store.”