Coles Group CEO Leah Weckert has revealed that Australian shoppers are reducing the number of trips they make to the supermarket in a bid to save on rising fuel costs. Speaking at a business event in Sydney, Weckert noted that the trend is impacting store traffic and spending patterns across the country.
Customers Changing Habits
According to Weckert, customers are consolidating their shopping into fewer visits, often opting for larger weekly shops rather than multiple smaller trips. This shift is driven by the need to minimise fuel expenses, which have remained high due to global oil prices and domestic supply pressures.
“We’re seeing a clear change in behaviour where customers are planning their trips more carefully,” Weckert said. “They’re combining errands and making fewer stops to save on petrol.”
Impact on Retail
The change in shopping frequency has implications for Coles’ operations, including basket size and in-store promotions. Weckert highlighted that while the average spend per visit has increased, the overall number of transactions has declined. This trend is consistent with broader retail patterns observed during periods of elevated fuel costs.
Coles is responding by adjusting its marketing strategies and focusing on value offerings to attract cost-conscious consumers. The company has also invested in its online platform to cater to customers who prefer home delivery to avoid travel costs.
Broader Economic Context
The comments come amid ongoing concerns about the cost of living in Australia, with fuel prices being a significant contributor. Weckert emphasised that Coles remains committed to supporting customers through competitive pricing and loyalty programs.
“We understand that every dollar counts for families right now,” she added. “Our goal is to help them save not just on groceries but on the overall cost of their shop.”
The trend of reduced shopping trips is expected to continue as long as fuel prices remain elevated, posing challenges for retailers that rely on frequent customer visits.
