Woolworths has marked a significant milestone with the opening of the 100th Mini Woolies.
This program to date has empowered the learning experiences of more than 8100 young people with disabilities across Australia and New Zealand
Over the last seven years, new sites have been established in every state and territory across Australia, with the program also expanding to NZ.
These simulated supermarket spaces within various educational settings (primary and secondary schools, TAFEs and disability service providers) help students practise new skills, with shelves stocked full of groceries, registers and baskets.
Sarah Corey, General Manager of Enterprise Operations and Mini Woolies at Woolworths Group, says it’s incredible to see how far Mini Woolies has come since its launch in 2018.
“We started with a simple goal to create an engaging learning environment for young people with disabilities. Reaching 100 sites is a testament to all of the wonderful communities that have welcomed us across Australia and NZ,” she says.
“Whether it’s for a maths class, cooking class or for practical experience in a retail qualification, we’ve seen the program used in so many creative ways, and it’s fantastic to see students and staff having fun and making the most of these spaces.
“None of this would be possible without the passionate support of our local Woolworths stores, whose generosity in hosting register training and setting up products on shelves is crucial to ensuring each Mini Woolies thrives.”
The 100th site opened at Warringa Park School in Werribee, Victoria. Parents and guests joined students as they officially opened the converted classroom, fitted with two registers and featuring a Mini BIG W alongside the supermarket products.
