In the lead up to Christmas, Woolworths and Coles are currently offering customers West Australian Rock Lobsters at $20 each, half the price they were in 2019.
According to Woolworths, its Rock Lobsters are supplied from a number of fishing families spread across Western Australia’s coast. The retailer estimates customers will feast on more than 35 tonnes of lobster this year. This is compared to 6.5 tonnes last year.
Woolworths’ support of the lobster industry with the purchase of five times more product than last year, comes at a time, says the retailer, when many businesses have been “heavily disrupted” by export restrictions.
Woolworths Head of Meat and Seafood Tim Dudding says lobsters have traditionally been considered a luxury item on the Christmas table, so the business is pleased to be making them accessible to more families this year, while also supporting the local industry.
“Our support in purchasing more rock lobsters this year will give WA producers an avenue to move more volume into the domestic market which would have traditionally been exported,” he says.
“It’s a win-win partnership, and we look forward to working with the industry to offer Australian households the chance to add premium seafood to their Christmas table this year at a more affordable price.”
Coles has claimed to have purchased 29 times the number of lobsters compared to last year.
Coles General Manager for Bakery, Deli and Seafood Andy Mossop says the supply arrangement is a win for the industry and for Coles customers.
“Coles is committed to supporting local producers and providing great value for customers, and this is a fantastic example of how we have been able to act quickly to support our suppliers with an income stream during a very challenging time while also benefiting our customers at the checkout,” he says.
“With Christmas around the corner, we are gearing up for the biggest week of the year for seafood sales with customers purchasing 70% more in December compared to other months.
“We are delighted to be able to offer premium quality and sustainable Australian seafood like WA Rock Lobsters at exceptional prices and help customers enjoy a luxury Christmas staple for less this year.”