Woolworths Group has outpaced its chief competitor Coles in the latest sales figures, according to CEO Amanda Bardwell, who said the company’s focus on offering better value, improving store convenience and tighter execution had resonated with cost-conscious shoppers.
The results, reported on Tuesday, did not provide specific sales figures in the statement issued by Bardwell. However, the comparison with Coles is based on Woolworths’ internal assessments and market commentary. The outcome comes as Australian households continue to grapple with elevated living costs, making grocery spending a key battleground between the two dominant supermarket chains.
Bardwell said the strategy was designed to meet customers where they are: “A focus on value, convenience and better execution had paid off for the supermarket giant.” Analysts note that Woolworths has been investing in its loyalty program, everyday low pricing, and store layouts to drive foot traffic and basket size.
The sales outperformance is a notable shift given that Coles had been making inroads with its own “Down Down” pricing campaign and expanded private-label offerings. Both chains have faced intense scrutiny from regulators and consumer groups over pricing practices and supplier relations, with the competition watchdog investigating the sector.
While Woolworths did not disclose profit margins, the sales growth suggests that its volume-led strategy is yielding results. Coles has not yet publicly responded to the comparison. Industry observers caution that a single quarter’s data does not indicate a long-term trend, and that both supermarkets are contending with higher costs from suppliers and logistics.
The broader retail sector is experiencing a slowdown as consumers shift to discount grocers and value retailers. Woolworths’ ability to outperform Coles in this environment may signal that its strategic pivot is gaining traction, but sustainability will depend on continued execution and customer retention.