Woolworths staffer slams abusive customers over price rises: 'We are suffering'

Supermarket customers have been feeling the pinch amid increasing grocery prices, but a Woolworths staffer has revealed that price hikes are also having a negative impact on employees.

The Queenslander posted on Woolworths’ official Facebook page earlier this week, demanding action from the grocery giant to stop shoppers taking out their frustrations on staff.

"Can you please advise customers that it is not the store team members' fault, or doing, that the price of groceries, especially soft drinks, has gone up!" she said.

"I'm sick of being told how 'disgusting' it is and made to feel small about this price increase," she added.

"Us workers are customers too and also suffering from the price increase and I don't know why customers are taking it out on us."

A Woolworths spokesperson previously confirmed to Yahoo News that in-store prices reflect cost increases from suppliers.

“In response to a wholesale cost increase from the supplier, we've updated our retail prices,” said the spokesperson.

“We understand that every dollar counts and never take the decision to increase prices lightly,” the spokesperson added.

“We'll continue to work closely with our suppliers to offer value and competitive prices across our customers’ shop.”

Woolworths customers respond to staffer’s complaint

Several Woolworths customers have responded to the employee’s allegations.

“If you're made to feel small by the price increase, they're probably feeling small as a reflection of their bank account. They shouldn't buy it if they can't afford it!” one customer wrote.

“The staff are just punching bags unfortunately. Higher up could care less about what happens below. Same issue with fuel at the moment, the sulky/moody attitudes wear you out mentally and emotionally,” said another.

“You are the face they see so they are going to complain to you. Should they? No, but it isn’t going to change so you need to get tough and stop caring about their opinion or move on to something else for a job,” commented a third.

“Like when staff were abused for purchasing limits or for products not being available. They are doing their job, in tough circumstances, and shouldn't have to deal with this poor treatment. People need to move on, it's only soft drink!” added a fourth.

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Woolworths confirms customer abuse penalties

A Woolworths spokesperson previously told Yahoo News that the safety of their team members is their top priority.

"The vast majority of customers do the right thing, and are courteous and respectful to our team members,” the spokesperson said.

"There is no place for abusive behaviour in our stores and we will not tolerate it.

"We take these matters seriously, and those who abuse our team members can face a range of consequences, including being banned from the store or criminal charges."

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