26-Year
Meet our Trade Partner of the Year <$50m Redefining Premium for Everyday Shoppers Get ready to go Paperless with digital planograms
Paul's update
Dear Trade Partners,
As we step into the final quarter of our financial year, customer sentiment remains a key focus. Cost-of-living pressures continue to shape purchasing behaviours, with 64% of Australians citing them as a primary concern. While we’ve seen a slight easing in value-seeking behaviours compared to last
year, customers remain highly price-conscious, with promotions, trading down, and cross-retailer shopping becoming standard habits. Housing affordability is another challenge, with nearly half of Australian customers reporting financial strain due to rising mortgage and rental costs.
COL has been the top concern since May 2022
Source: IPSOS Australia and IPSOS New Zealand, Issues Monitor, Question asks for top 3 issues
Top Concerns about Expenses (Discrete Month) Somewhat/Very Concerned (T2B%) | Feb 2025 vs. Last Month
Top Concerns about Expenses (Discrete Month)
Top 3 Drivers of Cost of Living: Groceries, Housing & Utility Bills
Somewhat/Very Concerned (T2B%) | Feb 2025 vs. Last Month
Despite these pressures, our latest Australian Customer Attitudes Report signals a growing willingness to balance price with other important considerations such as health, sustainability, and convenience. Notably, young and mid-age singles and couples have shifted most significantly toward prioritising price over quality, while families are refocusing on holistic health and wellbeing. Sustainability is also regaining traction, with many customers consciously looking to make environmentally responsible choices despite economic constraints.
Insights from our March Category Updates
These customer trends were at the forefront of discussions during our March Trade Partner Updates, where our Category teams shared strategic direction and areas of focus for the months ahead. These sessions remain invaluable in helping us align on category priorities, emerging customer behaviours, and operational improvements that drive mutual success. If you weren’t able to attend, I encourage you to connect with the Commercial team to ensure you’re across the latest insights.
We know all our customers are seeking value in slightly different ways. When we analyse the numbers behind what customers say they are doing with value-seeking behaviours in stores, we see a growing trend towards digital engagement, loyalty rewards, and private label trade-downs as key ways they are looking to maximise their budgets. It’s important that we work closely with our Category teams to ensure that, together, we’re delivering the best value for our customers.
Voice of Supplier insights
We continue to make progress in strengthening our Trade Partner relationships, and the latest Voice of Supplier (Wave 52) results are encouraging. Our overall Top 2 score has risen by 4 points to 55, with the trust Top 2 score increasing by 10 points to 53.
Positive feedback has centred on our strategic approach, transparency, and engagement at multiple levels, as well as our collaboration during the industrial action that disrupted operations at a number of our Distribution Centres in Victoria.
However, we know there’s still more to do. Trade Partners have called out the need for greater alignment on forecast and operational processes, particularly around promotional uplift forecasting. There’s also an opportunity to provide earlier visibility on opportunities to ensure smoother execution. These insights are invaluable as we continue to refine our ways of working to drive efficiency and growth for both Woolworths and our Trade Partners.
Advantage Annual Grocery Industry Voice of Supplier Survey: Benchmarking our performance
Beyond our bi-monthly Voice of Supplier program, the Advantage Group is currently conducting its Annual Grocery Industry Voice of Supplier survey.
This benchmarking study allows us to compare our performance against other retailers and identify opportunities to enhance our collaboration. We expect to receive these results in June and will share key takeaways with you as we work towards being your preferred Trade Partner.
Looking ahead
As we navigate the months ahead, our commitment remains steadfast: delivering exceptional value, quality, and innovation for our customers while strengthening our partnerships. Thank you for your continued collaboration and support.
Regards,
Paul Harker Chief Commercial Officer, Supermarkets and Metro
A 26-Year Partnership of GrapeCo Australia and Woolworths
Two decades ago, table grapes were a familiar staple of the Australian grocery scene. Varieties like Thompson and Crimson were everywhere, and dependable, but hardly exciting. They were the grapes that consumers knew, the grapes that filled supermarket shelves without fanfare.
BrothersAdrian and Frank Caia, the driving forces behind GrapeCo Australia, weren’t satisfied; they envisioned a future where grapes weren't just a commodity, but an experience – one that would elevate customers' fondness of the simple grape to a new level of excitement.
Driven by this vision, the Caia brothers set out to change ‘The Grape Game’. They forged partnerships with American growers and breeders who were pushing the boundaries of possibility, gaining access to a whole new world of innovative grape varieties through cross-pollination. The names alone were enough to spark curiosity: Cotton Candy, Candy Hearts, Sweet Globes, Jack’s Salute.
These weren't just grapes; they were a revolution in flavour. We sat down with Adrian to find out: how can you create innovation in an area that was thought to be mashed dry.
" At the start, it was actually hard to get off the ground," Adrian admits. "A lot of consumers were hesitant, unsure of what to expect." The concept of a ‘Cotton Candy’ or ‘Candy Heart’ grape was met with skepticism. But GrapeCo Australia and Woolworths were determined to challenge the conventional, both in the Australian agriculture industry, and especially in its consumer habits."
Through strategic PR marketing, eyecatching in-store displays, and a focus on the unique flavours and experiences these grapes offered, consumer curiosity piqued. The message was clear: this wasn't just fruit; it was exploration that promised to surprise and delight. And Australians, it turned out, were hungry for something new.
"Woolworths’ buying team backed us in to get them ranged back then, and now we’ve managed to transition and strengthen our grape offering so there are new IP varieties right through the season," Adrian says with a smile. "Once consumers understood the unique flavours, these new varieties became a staple. My father was running the business, and when Frank and I took over, because those first few varieties paid off, he was a bit more lenient. But I’m sure if that one backfired it would have been a different story!”
The 26-year partnership between GrapeCo Australia and Woolworths has been a rewarding, if not linear, journey. The produce industry is inherently volatile, with weather events, market fluctuations, and shifting consumer preferences presenting constant challenges. Yet, GrapeCo Australia's adaptability and unwavering commitment to learning and improvement have been their guiding stars. They haven't merely reacted to change; they've proactively sought it out, always looking for ways to elevate their offerings and exceed expectations.
"We (GrapeCo Australia and Woolworths) are focussed on customers and their satisfaction, and that's probably why we're so aggressive in the way we bring new products to market. It's also about ensuring supply; we both want the shelves stocked and we don't want rejections. So working together on those two outcomes is key (to our relationship)."
Our great, strategic working relationship with GrapeCo Australia is a result of shared goals and similar customer focused attitudes. The guys are easy to deal with and, fortunately, a great business to be involved with.
Daniel Scott
Category ManagerBerries, Cherries & Grapes
“We extended our season too. Now, we’ve managed to piece it all together so we’ve always got an offering of red, green and black grapes, and right through”, Adrian explains. "We're constantly striving to offer the best possible grapes in terms of flavour, appearance, and sustainability." This customer-centric approach, combined with a commitment to innovation, has been the cornerstone of GrapeCo Australia's success. A recent trial of protective netting over some crops have led to water waste reductions of up to 30%, and fertiliser input savings of up to 40%.
Looking ahead, GrapeCo Australia's product development is deeply rooted in consumer insights. They recognise the growing demand for healthier food options and are responding with grapes that are naturally nutritious and, as always, offering something new.
"Our next exciting one is we're exploring some really good red-grape varieties that originated from Israel that are very crunchy and have lychee flavours, so excited to bring them to market over the next 1-2 years."
The GrapeCo Australia team understands the importance of making fruit fun and appealing, especially to younger generations who are increasingly seeking out novel and exciting food experiences. By developing innovative varieties with unique flavours and textures, they're ensuring that grapes remain a relevant and enticing choice for all, while also aligning with current health and wellness trends.
As Adrian puts it, "We're not just supplying grapes; we're delivering an experience." And that experience, it seems, is one that Australian consumers are eager to savour, time and time again.
The High Impact of Hismile Meet Woolworths’ 2024 Trade Partner of the Year <$50M
From viral sensation to retail powerhouse, Hismile has taken the oral care industry by storm—revolutionising the category with innovative, science-backed formulas and a bold, playful approach.
Whatstarted as a breakthrough teethwhitening solution has evolved into a globally recognised brand with a devoted fan base, thanks to its cutting-edge products and social media prowess. And now, Hismile has another milestone to celebrate: being named Woolworths’ 2024 Trade Partner of the Year <$50M.
We caught up with Justin Gaggino, General Manager at Hismile, to chat about the brand’s rapid rise, the leap from e-commerce to in-store success, and what’s next on the horizon.
"We wanted to flip oral care on its
head."
Q: Hey Justin, tell us a bit about you and your role at Hismile.
Justin: I’m the General Manager, running day-to-day business operations. I joined about a year after our founders, Nick and Alex, started the business, and I’ve been lucky enough to grow alongside it. Before this, I was in marketing, which gave me a front-row seat to how brands build success in online commerce. Now, we’re in major retailers worldwide.
Q: Hismile started as an online-first brand. What was the big idea behind it?
Justin: Oral care has traditionally been a pretty stale category—it’s not like skincare or haircare, where people get excited about brands and routines. Brushing your teeth is more of a necessity than an experience. We saw an opportunity to change that.
Our goal was to take the same energy and fandom seen in beauty and personal care and bring it to oral health. That meant creating products that people genuinely love using—fun flavours, vibrant colors, and exciting collaborations with brands like Barbie and Chupa Chups. It’s about making oral care something you want to do, not just something you have to do.
I always compare us to brands like Crocs or Stanley—people don’t need seven Stanley cups, but they love the brand. That’s what we’re building with Hismile: a brand that people feel proud to be part of, with the added bonus of improving their oral health.
"Bringing the same energy in-store."
Q: How did you approach the transition from e-commerce to retail?
Justin: We knew we had to bring the same vibrancy and excitement that made us a hit online into the physical retail space. Only about 5% of consumers
are actively shopping at any given time—the other 95% are just considering. We built so much brand awareness online that when we finally launched in Woolworths, that 95% was ready and waiting.
In-store, it was all about showing up loud and proud. When we first launched in Woolworths, we took over the Health & Beauty aisle with an end-screen activation that’s now considered bestin-class. Our goal was to make sure customers had the same energy and excitement in-store as they did scrolling through our social media.
"Agility is our biggest advantage."
Q: Being a smaller player in a market dominated by legacy brands must have challenges. What’s been your experience?
Justin: The biggest challenge? Legacy players own a lot of shelf space, and they have deep marketing budgets. Getting a Category Manager to buy into your vision is key. Thankfully, our Woolworths Category Manager, Hayden, really saw the potential in what we were doing, which made that part easier.
The silver lining of being a challenger brand is agility. We can move fast, react quickly, and aren’t afraid to make changes. While legacy brands might be like a big ship turning slowly, we’re nimble—we can pivot instantly based on insights and market trends.
"Stand out or fade away."
Q: What advice would you give to brands looking to make the jump from online to in-store?
Justin: Don’t just blend in with the rest of the shelf. You have to do something different. Work with the Woolworths marketing team to bring your brand to life in-store and never take shelf space for granted. Most importantly, listen to your customers. It’s not about what you think your brand should be—it’s about what they want.
"What’s next? More colour, more fun, more categories."
Q: What can we expect from Hismile in 2025?
Justin: We’re expanding into lip care! We’re working with Woolworths’ beauty team to bring the same fun, flavours, and colours that made us a hit in oral care to the lip balm category. It’s another step in cementing Hismile as more than just an oral care brand—we’re a beauty brand that happens to be in oral care, and now, personal care too.
One thing’s for sure: we’re just getting started.
Elbow Grease: A FormulaWinningfor Growth
Bringing a new brand to market is no small feat, but with the right strategy and strong retail partnerships, success is within reach.
UCC Australia, a leading importer and distributor, has proven this with the exclusive Woolworths launch of Elbow Grease, the UK’s viral cleaning sensation.
Joanna Didilis
Knownfor its powerful performance at an affordable price, Elbow Grease’s hero product—the degreaser—has achieved cult status overseas. But cracking the Australian market required more than just a great
We spoke with UCC Australia’s CEO Peter Kemsley, Marketing Manager Joanna Didilis, and National Account Manager Paul Duroux to explore the brand’s journey and how a strong Woolworths partnership has been key to its success.
Delivering value and driving sales
According to Kemsley, Elbow Grease meets a clear market need. “We’re offering a highquality cleaning product at a price point well below the competition. It’s about delivering value when affordability matters most.”
To build awareness in Australia, UCC Australia is replicating the viral social media success Elbow Grease achieved in the UK. “It’s a long game, but we’re seeing real traction,” says Kemsley. The brand’s growing presence in Woolworths has been instrumental in that journey.
Elbow Grease’s affordability has made it particularly relevant in today’s cost-conscious market. “Shoppers are looking for effective products without the premium price tag,” adds Didilis. “Woolworths’ support in providing strong in-store positioning and promotions has helped us reach the right audience.”
A strategic collaboration: The Pink Range & McGrath Foundation
In late 2024, Elbow Grease amplified its presence with the launch of a limited-edition Pink Range in partnership with the McGrath Foundation. This initiative saw 20 cents from every product sold—split evenly between Elbow Grease and Woolworths—donated to fund cancer care nursing across Australia. The results spoke for themselves: $112,000 raised and strong sales momentum. “The alignment was perfect,” says Kemsley. “Woolworths’ additional support for broader cancer initiatives made it even more meaningful.”
Peter Kemsley
Paul Duroux
Beyond charitable impact, the Pink Range offered a powerful marketing opportunity. “The standout packaging, strategic offlocation displays, and Woolworths’ in-store support all contributed to a strong uplift in sales,” Duroux explains. The initiative also showcased Woolworths’ commitment to supporting meaningful causes, reinforcing brand loyalty among shoppers.
Maximising impact with Woolworths support
Elbow Grease’s success highlights the value of close collaboration between brands and retailers. “Woolworths provided strong execution support, from product placement to promotional amplification,” says Didilis. “That level of engagement is crucial when launching a new brand in a competitive space.”
This collaboration extended beyond just in-store execution. “We’ve invested heavily in marketing, from Cartology placements to above-the-line campaigns,” says Kemsley. “We believe in this brand, and we’ve worked closely with Woolworths to give it the best possible chance to succeed.”
“We knew that with cost of living pressures and cleaning being a grudge purchase that we have to make everyday, Elbow Grease was the optimal partner to offer our customers with value, challenge the Australian cleaning market, and drive important initiatives along the way like the McGrath Foundation partnership.”
- Nicole MacMahon, Category ManagerPersonal & Household Care
“The alignment was perfect... Woolworths’ additional support for broader cancer initiatives made it even more meaningful.”
Key Learnings for Trade Partners
For suppliers looking to successfully introduce brands to Woolworths, Kemsley offers clear advice: “Understand the competitive landscape. It’s not just about having a great product; it’s about bringing true differentiation to the category.”
UCC Australia has also invested heavily in influencer partnerships and PR to build brand trust. “We’ve engaged over 80 influencers, and the response has been fantastic,” says Didilis. “Elbow Grease is on track to becoming a household name in Australia, just as it is in the UK.”
In addition to brand-building, operational execution is just as critical. “Ensuring seamless stock availability and aligning with Woolworths’ category strategy made a significant difference,” says Duroux. “When a brand and retailer work in sync, the results speak for themselves.”
With Woolworths’ support and a strategic approach to growth, Elbow Grease is primed for an even bigger 2025. “This is just the beginning,” says Kemsley. “There’s a lot more to come.”
Redefining Premium Affordable Luxury:
Everyday Shoppers
Affordable
luxury is redefining how customers engage with premium products, bridging the gap between exclusivity and accessibility. This emerging trend offers high-quality, well-designed products at an attainable price point, allowing customers to indulge in small yet meaningful luxuries without overspending.
Inan era where cost-of-living pressures are top of mind, shoppers are looking for affordable ‘treat-yourself’ moments, seeking feel-good purchases that add a touch of sophistication to their everyday lives.
Now, Woolworths is tapping into this trend with an exciting and exclusive launch: the highly coveted Anya Hindmarch Universal Bag. This globally celebrated tote, known for its sleek design and groundbreaking sustainability credentials, will be available exclusively at Woolworths stores nationwide from mid-March 2025.
Anya Hindmarch’s Universal Bag: A stylish step toward sustainability
Renowned British designer, Anya Hindmarch has built an iconic brand that blends luxury with practicality. From her meticulously crafted handbags to her bold sustainability initiatives, Hindmarch continues to push boundaries in fashion and retail. The Universal Bag, first launched in the UK in 2021, is her most ambitious sustainability project to date.
This next-generation reusable bag is crafted from 100% recycled plastic for the outer fabric. Designed to be an everyday use bag, the Universal Bag is 100% recyclable and comes with a 10-year guarantee, reinforcing a commitment to both durability and environmental responsibility.
Plastic pollution remains a pressing environmental issue but working together with major global food retailers shows how the solution needs to be collaborative.
ANYA HINDMARCH, Founder and Creative Director
Following its international success in the UK, Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, and Singapore, the Universal Bag is finally making its way to Australia. Woolworths is proud to be the first Australian retailer to bring this innovative and stylish bag to local shoppers.
As part of this global initiative, each supermarket collaborating on the Universal Bag has developed a unique design and colour exclusive to their stores—Woolworths included!
“Our work with Anya Hindmarch and Solent has been a true collaboration, driven by a shared vision to create beautiful, sustainable, and functional products. The Universal Bag is a testament to this vision, offering our customers an accessible touch of luxury. We hope this limited-edition bag will be a hit, and are excited to see this land in stores”
RHONDA MA
Category Manager
Kitchen Needs and Sustainability
How you can leverage this trend
The Universal Bag exemplifies how brands can blend luxury, affordability, and sustainability to resonate with today’s shoppers. Have an idea about how this trend could work for your brand or products? Speak with your Category Manager about leveraging this trend to elevate your brand and meet evolving customer expectations.
The perfect blend of fashion, function and responsibility
Woolworths is proud to serve Australian communities for more than 100 years, providing quality products and services. To acknowledge this milestone and truck-loads of history, a set of special commemorative vehicles has been designed to mark Woolworths' centenary.
Starting in March, a new truck will be released in stores each month, each reflecting Woolworths’ rich heritage. These exclusive collectibles are expected to generate strong customer interest, driving foot traffic and boosting in-store engagement.
The first truck in the series launched on March 17, celebrates the fabulous fifties —a decade of innovation and expansion for Woolworths. This debut piece is a striking blue 1950s Ford Pickup, featuring classic Woolworths branding.
While the details of future truck designs remain under wraps, each will showcase iconic Woolworths branding and imagery spanning the decades. This collection presents an exciting opportunity for suppliers to align with the centenary celebrations and leverage the increased customer enthusiasm around the campaign.
Given the success of past collectible campaigns, these trucks are anticipated to sell out quickly, reinforcing Woolworths’ strong brand connection with customers.
Voice of Supplier:
A Vital Tool for Stronger Partnerships
At Woolworths, our ambition is to be the preferred trading partner for our suppliers. Achieving this means continuously strengthening our relationships through collaboration, transparency, and meaningful engagement. One of the key ways we do this is through our Voice of Supplier (VOS) feedback programs.
What is Woolworths Supermarkets Australia
Bi-monthly Voice of Supplier (VOS)?
The Woolworths Supermarkets Australia VOS is a bi-monthly survey designed to gather direct feedback from our Trade Partners, allowing us to track and enhance our performance as a business partner. Run by the Advantage Group, VOS provides suppliers with a confidential platform to share their perspectives on working with Woolworths.
In addition to the bi-monthly VOS, Woolworths also participates in the Advantage Annual Grocery Benchmarking Voice of Supplier Program, an industrywide survey that measures retailers relative to their competitive set. However, the bimonthly VOS survey is unique in that it is not benchmarked, providing feedback on working purely with Woolworths. It is conducted on a more frequent basis, providing us with a constant flow of insights that enable us to course correct and address opportunities to improve throughout the year.
Why your feedback matters
Since launching eight years ago, the bi-monthly VOS has become an essential tool for improving supplier partnerships. Your feedback helps us:
· Measure supplier sentiment and confidence in our partnership.
· Track performance and identify areas where we can improve.
· Develop action plans that address supplier concerns and enhance collaboration.
The survey measures seven key attributes, including:
1. “Our business views Woolworths as our Most Trusted retail partner”
2. Woolworths has a customer-led process for joint planning and these commitments are delivered on.
3. Woolworths works with us to forecast and order sufficient stock to maintain displays for customers.
4. Woolworths' stores execute promotional and retail marketing plans in accordance with commitments.
5. Woolworths is a straightforward business to work with, that provides clarity and there are no surprises in our dealings.
6. Woolworths' personnel are available and accessible and respond to feedback and requests in a timely manner.
7. Woolworths demonstrates a commitment to and understanding of the Grocery Code of Conduct and other legal obligations.
What’s new in VOS?
To improve the depth of insights gathered, we’ve enhanced the way we collect feedback. In areas where we may be falling short, evidenced by lower scores, there are opportunities for respondents to provide further commentary, giving us a clearer understanding of pain points and helping us design more effective solutions.
Upcoming survey waves
To ensure your voice is heard, make a note of the upcoming VOS survey dates:
· Wave 54: 7 May – 22 May 2025
· Wave 55: 25 June – 10 July 2025
· Wave 56: 13 August – 28 August 2025
· Wave 57: 22 October – 6 November 2025
How to get Involved
Engaging with VOS is a crucial way to ensure Woolworths continues to improve as your Trade Partner. If you’re not currently receiving the Woolworths Supermarkets Australia Bi-Monthly VOS survey and would like to participate, please reach out to supplierengagement@woolworths.com.au Your insights help us create better experiences, drive meaningful change, and build a stronger partnership for the future. Thank you for your ongoing engagement, we really appreciate it!
Get ready to go Paperless
We’re excited to launch Planogram To Go (P2G) – a new digital tool designed to make in-store planogram execution easier, faster, and more efficient.
Planogram2Go (P2G) works seamlessly alongside Compass, providing:
· Enhanced accessibility: Access digital planograms anytime, anywhere, from any device with an internet connection.
· A centralised platform: A single source of truth for all planograms, ensuring everyone is working with the latest version.
· Improved collaboration tools: Easy sharing, feedback, and approval workflows for faster turnaround times.
· User-friendly interface: Intuitive design and easy navigation for quick access to information.
Key features:
· Visual planograms: View article images and details for accurate execution.
· Barcode scanning: Quickly identify products and their correct planogram placement.
· Implementation mode: Track progress by ticking off completed moves.
· Customisable labels: Tailor labels to your specific needs.
See what’s coming: Watch the introduction video to see the new features in action.
Get ready to transition from PDFs to Planogram2Go, launching mid-2025
Your preparation checklist:
Register your company via the Compass Portal
Register your personal profile via the Compass Portal
Make sure your team is registered and ready
Learn more about the Compass Portal
Download the Planogram2Go App
Visit Partner Hub for help and resources
Book and complete P2G training
Reach out for support if needed
Compass supports both iOS and Android, all Trade Partners, Field Support Teams and Vendors who require access to planograms will need to download Compass on their device.
For any questions or assistance with signing up for or using Compass, please contact our dedicated support team at compass@woolworths.com.au.
For general queries regarding planograms, please contact our Field Support team at fieldsupport@woolworths.com.au.
The New Promotions Portal is Here!
The new and improved Promotions Portal officially launched on 17 March 2025, transforming how we manage promotions to make the process more intuitive, efficient, and user-friendly.
What’s Changed?
The new Promotions Portal utilises SAP BTP Fiori for a seamless user experience. The core tasks and processes remain the same, but key enhancements include:
· Enhanced user experience: A fresh, visually appealing, and easy-tonavigate interface.
· Streamlined efficiency: Faster loading times and optimised workflows to save you valuable time.
Accessing the New Portal
If you haven’t already, we encourage you to explore the new platform and take advantage of the available training sessions.
If you’d like an introduction to SAP Fiori, check out this short introductory video.
We’re committed to making this transition as seamless as possible and look forward to supporting you in leveraging the new Promotions Portal!
Comprehensive Training and Support
To ensure a smooth transition, we have a range of training and support resources available:
· Learn about the new features: View the series of short videos highlighting the changes, available on the Partner Hub Portal.
· Register to attend a Drop-in Session: Have questions? Join the drop-in sessions on April 4, or April 11. Additional sessions may be available, subject to demand.
· Training sessions: Our standard BAU training sessions now focus on the new Promotions Portal. These sessions are open to both new and existing suppliers. Available sessions include:
– Promotions Portal Introduction & Navigation
– Promotions Portal Favourites, To-Do Lists & AOR Settings
– Promotions Portal Deal Management
· Dedicated support: You’ll continue to receive the same exceptional assistance from your dedicated Category team.
Bringing a little good over Christmas
Santa Cookies Funds Raised
$387K $4m
Raised between 27 November - 24 December, 2024
Theresults are in, the 10th annual OzHarvest Christmas Appeal was a resounding success! Running from 27 November to 24 December 2024, last year’s appeal raised an outstanding $4 million— providing an incredible 8,079,898 meals to Australians in need.
Standout contributions included:
· $4 million in funds raised for OzHarvest—providing an incredible 8,079,898 meals to Australians in need.
· $387,000 of funds raised for OzHarvest from Santa Cookies (with 50c from every purchase donated!)
In 2024, our new fundraising methods made it even easier for customers to contribute. For the first time, we introduced $1 & $2 ‘Gift Tag’ tokens that delivered a 36% increase on last year. We also offered a ‘Round Up’ at selfserve checkouts and even with a shortened window, there was a 13% increase in people saying “yes” to round up their transactions.
2024 was also our 5th consecutive year of supporting WIRES with the sale of Reindeer Carrots and Wally the Wombat cakes. Each of these products had a baby expansion in their range, with snacking carrots added, and a Wally the Wombat cupcake 9-pack helping achieve a record for our furry, feathered and scaly friends, raising $453,000 up 105% on last year.
Welcoming
Site360
A Safer, Simpler Way to Work with Woolworths Group (Goodbye Pegasus!)
At Woolworths Group, we care deeply and are committed to ensuring your safety is a key priority. That's why we're transitioning to Site360, a new, user-friendly contractor safety technology solution, replacing Pegasus. Site360 is already being used in some stores as the system used for visitor sign-in.
Starting this May, Site360 will become a central hub for managing all health and safety requirements across all Woolworths Group stores, distribution centres, customer fulfilment centres, and office locations, including company registration and individual worker inductions.
For Merchandisers and Demonstrators
To ensure a seamless transition, we're initiating company registration in Site360 from April 1, 2025. You'll receive detailed instructions via email on registering your company and individual workers soon. We encourage you to register early to avoid any disruptions.
Why are we moving to Site360?
This transition reflects our commitment to deepening and enhancing the safety and experience of our contractors and
team members through a centralised and consistent technology solution.
Key Benefits of Site360:
· Improved efficiency: Streamline your workflow with a single system for all Woolworths contractor safety needs, leading to a faster check-in process.
· Enhanced user experience:
Enjoy Site360's intuitive design and functionality, making it easier to navigate and complete your safety requirements.
· Increased accessibility: Access your safety information and digital induction card anytime, anywhere through Site360.
· Ongoing safety investment: This change highlights our dedication to providing you with the best possible safety experience while working with Woolworths Group.
We will provide you with more detailed information directly. We look forward to continuing to create workplaces where everyone feels safe, valued and supported.
The PWRM Cost Recovery Structure is Changing for DCs
The Cost Recovery Structure for supplier-initiated Withdrawals and Recalls is changing from the May 1, 2025.
If a supplier elects to dispose of product(s) in a Woolworths Distribution Centre as opposed to picking up the stock, a charge will apply to cover the fee charged by Woolworths’ third party waste service provider responsible for disposing of the product(s).
The charge may vary depending on the type of product, the volume and the waste service provider. The waste service provider will provide Woolworths with an invoice for the disposal and Woolworths will in turn provide the supplier with a copy of this invoice and recoup the costs of disposal charged by the waste service provider from the supplier ‘as is’ by deducting such amount from the supplier’s next remittance for products supplied to Woolworths.
For clarity, Woolworths will not add any additional administration charges on top of the cost of disposal charge, which will be charged as a pass-through cost.
Category Updates
Everyday Needs
Meat, Poultry & Seafood
Chilled, Bakery & Deli
Grocery Foods
A big thank you to all our Trade Partners for joining us, both in-person at our Norwest Support Office and online, for our March Category Updates! It was a great opportunity for our teams to share strategy updates and connect with our valued partners.
Customer Insights Unlocking Growth Through
The Digital Advantage: Understanding Digital Influence
Digital is reshaping retail, creating powerful opportunities for growth. With approximately 60% of spending expected to occur online in the next decade1, and 60% of Australians now researching online before making a purchase1 — making digital touchpoints crucial to retail success.
Recent analysis reinforces this shift: 46% of online sales came from search2 on the Woolworths online store, 57% of online sales occur through mobile apps2, and products added to digital shopping lists convert at twice the rate of others. These insights reveal how deeply digital channels influence purchase decisions, regardless of where the final transaction takes place.
Enter Digitally Influenced Sales (DIS) - a breakthrough metric that connects online browsing behaviour to in-store purchases now available in Quantium’s Q.Digital Beta. This innovation finally bridges the gap between digital engagement and physical retail performance.
Here's a practical example: a parent researches nappies on their mobile device, compares different brands and sizes, then purchases their selected product in-store during their next shopping trip. While traditional metrics miss this digitalto-physical connection, DIS captures it perfectly, revealing the true impact of digital touchpoints on sales.
Actionable Insights for Growth
Leading brands are already using digital insights to drive meaningful results:
· Search Excellence: Unlock new growth opportunities by understanding exactly how customers search for and discover your products online.
· Customer Experience Innovation: Transform browsing into buying by creating seamless experiences that reflect real customer behaviour.
· Strategic Channel Integration: Maximise impact by orchestrating digital and physical channels based on actual customer journeys.
Looking Ahead
With online spending set to account for 60% of retail transactions1, digital insights aren't just valuable - they're essential. Through advanced analytics platforms like Q.Digital Beta, developed in partnership with Quantium, retailers and brands can access the insights needed to drive growth in today's market.
“Q.
Digital Beta data offers suppliers valuable insights into online customer behaviour, preferences, and purchasing patterns, enabling them to optimise pricing strategies and marketing campaigns to drive optimal commercial results.”
Sam Gorgise, Woolworths Merchandise Manager
Understanding the complete customer journey - from digital engagement to purchase - enables brands to create more effective strategies and stronger customer connections. The future of retail success lies in leveraging these insights to deliver exceptional experiences across all channels.
Ready to discover how DIS and digital insights can transform your business? Let's start the conversation. Contact us at consumer@quantium.com.au.
Sources
1Woolworths Group Annual Report
2 Q.Digital Beta
Reducing our impact on nature
No-Deforestation Our aim for
Asannounced in August last year, Woolworths Group has a new NoDeforestation target, for which we shared the supporting Policy document with the majority of suppliers in January. Deforestation is a key contributor to emissions, so this change reflects important progress in aiming for net zero. Working with farmers, suppliers, industry and government is crucial as we strive for a sustainable food industry for a better tomorrow.
This initiative aims to eliminate deforestation from key commodities for both own brand and vendor brand products including paper, pulp & timber; palm oil; cocoa; soy in stockfeed (with a priority focus on poultry within Supermarkets); and fresh beef with a target date of 31 December 2025 in production, not on shelf.
The Woolworths Group No-Deforestation policy and guidance is available on Partner Hub. We encourage all Trade Partners to review it and consider necessary actions to align. Woolworths will engage key Trade Partners in relevant categories in coming months to understand their current status and policy alignment plans. Please note, beef is not covered in the current policy, as we continue to consult with industry on an appropriate approach, which reflects our unique Australian context.
For paper, pulp & timber (PPT) in packaging, the policy covers both primary and secondary cardboard packaging, which is widely used by suppliers. Pleasingly, the packaging industry is mature, with the
majority of domestic supply aligned with our requirements, including the widely used FSC and PEFC certifications. For many categories this will be the only relevant commodity.
This move extends Woolworths' previous 'net zero' deforestation Own Brand target. While many Trade Partners already have similar commitments, Woolworths acknowledges that achieving no-deforestation may be more challenging for some suppliers and requires collective effort.
Trade Partners may be requested to provide updates on the status of any affected products they have, or new products coming to market. Consideration will be given to individual Trade Partners’ circumstances, particularly regarding existing assortments, where time or other adjustments may be reasonably necessary for ranges to transition.
Woolworths is committed to collaborating with suppliers and industry partners to achieve deforestation free supply chains. We will work with you to ensure a fair and supportive transition, especially for smaller Trade Partners.
Find further information on Woolworths' sustainability in the 2024 Sustainability Report and Annual Report. For further questions, or to request an information session, contact sustainablesourcing@woolworths.com.au.
We appreciate your partnership in this critical initiative and look forward to collaborating with you to build a more sustainable future.
Recycling Update Soft Plastics
Action required on Soft Plastics Packaging
Following the collapse of REDcycle in November 2022, and the subsequent limitations in soft plastic recycling options, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has made clear their expectations that all brand owners are to update their soft plastics packaging to remove references to REDcycle and the old soft plastics ARL styles, with a provided timeframe of 2 years for the transition (i.e. until 1 July 2025), unless an exceptional circumstance applies (in which case the expectation is for the transition to occur by 1 July 2026.)
The following ARLs and logos should no longer be used:
The ACCC’s expectation covers both on-pack claims and any representations made online. Product images for articles currently displaying one or more of the above label styles should be replaced or removed as soon as possible and well in advance of 1 July 2025.
APCO members should refer to APCO’s guidance, and may choose to adopt the ‘Check Locally’ ARL for eligible recyclable soft plastics.
If you are not confident that stock will have transitioned on shelf or images will be updated online by 1 July 2025, or if you need any further support, please use this form to advise us of the relevant SKU details, and exceptional circumstances which delayed compliance.
Recycling Label styles required to be removed by 1 July 2025
ARL Return to Store
ARL Store Drop Off
REDcycle logo
Regulations on Plastic Produce Stickers
From September 2025, the SA Government is prohibiting the use of traditional plastic data bar stickers on produce sold in South Australia. Certified compostable stickers are able to be used as an acceptable alternative.
Produce supplied to locations outside SA can continue to use plastic stickers, however we anticipate other states may follow with similar regulations over time. Produce to be sold in SA using plastic stickers will not be accepted into ARDC from 1 August 2025 to ensure sell-through before the regulation date.
All F&V Suppliers that supply stock to SA were contacted last year to advise of the change and confirm readiness. Any Trade Partners with questions regarding this ban should contact supplierengagement@woolworths.com.au to be connected with the Commercial Sustainability Team.
Upcoming 2025 bans on PFAS Chemicals in andproductpackaging
PFAS
(Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of "forever chemicals" used in consumer products and packaging for characteristics such as water, stain and fire resistance. PFAS persist in the environment and waterways and have been linked to human health concerns.
From 1 July 2025, three classes of highconcern PFAS variants (PFOA, PFOS and PFHxS) will be regulated by the Commonwealth Government via Schedule 7 of the Commonwealth IChEMS Register, prohibiting their use in domestic manufacturing, and the import of products using them. NSW and QLD have now passed legislation (to be enforced by their respective EPAs) to control the handling and use of the banned PFAS chemicals from this date, and we expect other states to follow.
Under the regulations, from 1 July 2025 product or packaging containing the three banned PFAS compounds (and their related substances) cannot be imported into Australia (i.e. received by Australian Customs), or manufactured within Australia. There are provisions that will permit the trade of products that are already ‘in use’ (ie already manufactured and in Australia) as at this date, which we will need to work through on a case-by-case basis with impacted Trade Partners.
Any presence above the ICHEMS guidance thresholds of a banned PFAS compound must be disclosed to Woolworths. As they are not visually detectable, testing may be required to confirm if PFAS is present or absent. Trade Partners with products in higher risk categories for PFAS use may be contacted directly to request confirmation of compliance to the upcoming regulations. If you currently trade any products which you believe may, or are confirmed to contain one of the PFAS variants in the regulations, please contact your Category Manager as soon as possible.
Upcoming ban for Moulded Expanded Plastic Packaging
Further to prior communications, we remind Trade Partners of upcoming state-based legislations in WA on Moulded Expanded Plastics in packaging effective 1st July 2025.
The ban prohibits the use of any form of Expanded Plastic packaging on articles traded in Western Australia including but not limited to:
• ●Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
• ●Expanded Polyethylene (EPE)
• ●Expanded Polypropylene (EPP)
• ●Ethylene-vinyl Acetate (EVA)
• Expanded Bioplastics
Trade Partners that use Expanded Plastics in packaging should review the WA Government’s website and Guidance documents for further information, including product and category exemptions.
If you are using Expanded Plastics in any of your product packaging, please reach out to your Category team as soon as possible.
Christmas and Summer Trade Show 2025
14 & 15 October, Sydney Showgrounds
Introduce your products to our team
This summer and festive season, set your brand up for selling success. The Trade Show is a unique opportunity to gain exposure and share your products with our team.
Engage with our frontline, including Store Managers and our Store Operations teams, who play pivotal roles in bridging the gap between brands and customers.
Next steps
We offer a range of packages to suit Trade Partners of all sizes.
Learn more about the available packages and apply by 30 June 2025.
LEARN MORE APPLY NOW
Dates to remember
Woolworths Fruit & Veg Trade Partner Update
The Woolworths Fruit & Veg Trade Partner Update will be held at Hort Connections, Australia and New Zealand’s largest horticulture conference and trade show.
If you are attending Hort Connections, you will have the opportunity to attend this in-person only event. Invitations will be issued in the coming weeks.
FY26 Update
Join us online to hear a strategy update from our CEO, Managing Director, and Chief Commercial Officer as we enter a new financial year.
Our leaders will outline how we are working together across Woolworths Group to deliver on value and availability to meet our customers’ needs. More information will be shared closer to the event. We hope you can join us online!
How to make a SpeakUp report
Reports can be made via phone or in writing in 130 commonly spoken languages. (Note: phone reporting in some languages is subject to interpreter availability.)
NRS – Suppliers with hearing or speech difficulties
Grocery
Thursday, 5 June, 2025
3:30 PM - 4:30
BRISBANE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE
Thursday, 26 June, 2025
