Woolworths, Aldi's major tips to avoid Christmas order heartbreak
Woolworths and Aldi have unveiled important dates and expert advice for customers to order their Christmas essentials in time for the holidays.
With the easing of Covid restrictions across the country meaning Aussies can finally reunite with loved ones, the supermarket giants are gearing up for their busiest festive season yet.
A Woolworths spokesperson told Yahoo News Australia that this Christmas, the supermarket will have more pick-up and delivery windows available than ever before.
The national chain has also revealed key information to ensure online shoppers avoid disappointment.
“Customers can place an order for same-day fulfilment until 21 December for delivery or collection,” said the spokesperson.
From December 22 to 24, customers will need to select a next day option for their orders.
“Customers who are a little more flexible in when they can collect or receive their order in most metropolitan areas should find a window if they place an order 24 hours in advance.”
Windows will remain open on December 23 until 6pm for Christmas Eve morning pick-up or delivery and 11pm for Christmas Eve afternoon pick-up or delivery.
When is the Christmas cut-off for Aldi Special Buys delivery?
Aldi confirmed on their website that the cut-off date for guaranteed Christmas Special Buys delivery (December 8) has passed, meaning shoppers will need to shop in-store to be 100 per cent sure of acquiring their buys in time.
It is still possible to receive your delivery before Christmas if you order after December 8. Aldi however says that during this period there "could be unforeseen delays".
Aldi does not offer same-day or express delivery options, so for shoppers who have already placed their Special Buys orders, they should expect them within five to 16 days.
When should shoppers buy essential Christmas food items?
As Woolworths is expecting to sell 1.75 million kilograms of their popular Half Leg Ham this year, they advise that shoppers buy a ham early.
“Christmas hams are often bought earlier, as they can be kept refrigerated longer than other perishable items and still be fresh for Christmas celebrations," a spokesperson said.
"Customers can check the use-by date to pick the right one if they're buying early.”
When it comes to seafood, shoppers should buy their prawns, oysters and salmon fresh in the days leading up to their celebrations.
Woolworths is selling frozen turkeys in stores now and fresh turkeys will be available from mid-December.
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Aussies starting Christmas shopping earlier this year
Australians have been stockpiling their favourite Christmas items almost a month early, with Woolworths and Coles confirming a massive surge across the bakery, desserts and seafood.
November sales for pavlovas and puddings were up 40 per cent on last year, while there was a 20 per cent increase for fruit mince pies, according to supermarket giant Coles.
Lobster sales were also up 40 per cent on last November, with Coles bracing for a further rush on seafood two days before Christmas.
Coles Chief Executive of Commercial and Express Greg Davis confirmed a shift towards early buying had begun.
“Customers are also spreading their Christmas shop over the two months rather than the week leading up to Christmas which is traditionally our most busiest period,” he said.
Woolworths echoed these sentiments, advising all customers: “To plan their celebrations in advance. If there is something you’ve got an eye on, jump in early and purchase it the next time you shop if it can be stored for longer.”
Aldi offer their top five Christmas shopping tips
Aldi shared their favourite shopping tips to make this festive season one for the books.
Shop and plan recipes that include fruit and vegetables that are in season, as they are more affordable and delicious.
Check out the catalogue before heading in-store and note the SuperSavers on offer to unlock more savings.
Browse Aldi’s recipe hub, which includes shopping lists and festive recipes to up your Christmas game.
Buy frozen seafood and turkey early, or shop for fresh options in mid-December.
Check out Aldi's middle aisle for Christmas gifts, wrapping, decorations, and more.
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