Coles drops price on Christmas delicacy
Coles is selling lobster for half price this Christmas after buying excess to help out fishermen who had their stock rejected by China.
The supermarket giant is selling its Western Australian Rock Lobsters for just $20 - matching the price at Woolworths - which will be available in the deli section of its stores nationwide.
Coles purchased 29 times the amount of lobsters it did last year, in what Coles General Manager for Bakery, Deli and Seafood Andy Mossop said was a win for the industry and consumers.
He said the company was preparing for its busiest week of the year for seafood sales, with customers purchasing over 70 per cent more in December compared to other months.
“Coles is committed to supporting local producers and providing great value for customers,” Mr Mossop said.
“This is a fantastic example of how we have been able to act quickly to support our suppliers with an income stream during a very challenging time while also benefiting our customers at the checkout.
”We are delighted to be able to offer premium quality and sustainable Australian seafood, like WA Rock Lobsters, at exceptional prices and help customers enjoy a luxury Christmas staple for less this year.”
Woolworths also made an announcement saying they will drop the price of lobsters to $20.
Western Rock Lobster Council CEO Matt Taylor said the market closures in China meant there was an increased supply of the “premium” product for domestic markets.
“Partnering with national retailers to boost local consumption will play an important role in the viability of fishing businesses and their regional communities,” he said.
Marine Stewardship Council Program Director of Oceania Anne Gabriel said Coles has helped out WA fishing companies immensely this Christmas.
“With a third of global fish populations overfished, choosing sustainable seafood with the blue fish tick supports livelihoods, communities and helps protect one of the last major food sources truly from the wild,” she said.
“When you see the MSC blue fish tick label on Aussie lobster at your local Coles deli counter, you can feel good that your purchase is not only good for your pocket, but for the ocean and those that depend on it too.”