Woolworths Group has announced its Q3 sales results, including a 0.3 percent decline in Woolworths New Zealand’s average prices driven by deflation in fruit and vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes and citrus.
Woolworths New Zealand’s total sales increased 4.4 percent on an Easter and New Year adjusted basis, with ecommerce sales increasing 23.7 percent in Q3.
Woolworths New Zealand Interim Managing Director Pieter de Wet said the growth in eCommerce reflects the changing ways that New Zealanders are choosing to shop for their food.
“More than ever, customers can shop around and compare prices and products online to choose the best option for their needs and budget. That means we need to work even harder to give our customers good value and a fantastic shopping experience,” said de Wet.
“We’re continuing to grow our ecommerce network so we can provide even more convenience with options like Direct to Boot now available in 52 of our stores. We know kiwi customers are still facing cost-of-living pressures, and delivering value continues to be our priority.”
He added that the group had deliberately invested in keeping prices on key products as low as possible for as long as possible for its customers. The decline in average prices this quarter was also a good sign that food inflation is easing.
“However, we are a small, exporting country that’s buffeted by international dynamics, and while rising dairy and beef prices at the moment are great news for our farmers, it’s no secret that this has a knock-on effect for Kiwi households.”
Heading into the rest of the year, Woolworths will continue to closely monitor its costs and remain focused on meaningful value for its customers.
