Woolworth’s National Drought Action – Tues 23 Jan.
Jobs – Qld
January 14, 2007Australia Day Treasure Hunt
January 16, 2007You can add to an expected $3m farmers’ drought relief by shopping Tuesday 23
Many people have emailed PWF about this fundraising day and we wholeheartedly support the cause and the effort. With all Woolworths and Safeway supermarkets across Australia participating, the special initiative is expected to raise in excess of $3m for farm families.
The bulk of the donation will be directed to the Country Women’s Association for immediate distribution, with the remainder allocated to supporting sustainable agriculture research projects.
However…. we did note the report in The Australian in late December 06, saying…
Woolworths AND Coles have both put fines for anti-competitive behaviour in the liquor industry behind them. Spokespeople for both companies inferred the decisions related to “historical liquor industry practices”.
The report continued ‘tongue-in-cheek’ saying “In a timely piece of philanthropy, Woolworths also pledged….to donate more than $3 million to the Country Women’s Association and research into sustainable farming practices….Chief executive Michael Luscombe said the company would donate all supermarket profits made on January 23 to support rural communities during the drought.” Shares in Woolworths closed up 33c at $23.65, while Coles was up 24c at $14.05.
“A large proportion of the money raised will be used to provide immediate support for families’ household needs, including paying utility bills, buying groceries and fuel,” (Michael Luscombe) said, “….This day is about raising critical awareness and demonstrating how every Australian can help the farmers on the land. After all, this drought has the potential to significantly impact upon everyone; people and organisations……donation tins at all Woolworths and Safeway checkouts will also be available for those who wish to make a greater contribution to drought relief.”
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This is a generous gesture on Woolies’ part as is the Community Stores Program run in conjunction with the Fred Hollows Foundation to help with remote Indigenous store operations AND the company’s Community Foundation efforts.
Perhaps the element of cynicism might be dispelled by a discussion about what is generally seen at the grassroots as the ‘squeeze’ exerted on growers in the pursuit of expanding the ‘House Brand’. Do let us know what YOU know about this?
2 Comments
Who owns the vast majority of those farms?
Woolworths.
🙂
Did you know that there was great need for assistance and not all farmers got help.