Coles and Woolworths Challenge ACCC Over Alleged Misleading Discounts

The supermarket giants dispute claims they misled consumers with price promotions, attributing price changes to supplier cost increases.

The ACCC has accused Coles and Woolworths of inflating prices before offering them as discounts, violating consumer law.
Both supermarkets argue that the price increases were driven by supplier demands amid high inflation, not by their own initiatives.
Court documents reveal that over 600 products were allegedly involved in the pricing scheme, including common grocery items like noodles and pet food.
Coles and Woolworths are required to submit their written responses to the allegations by November 29, with further court hearings scheduled for December.
The case highlights broader concerns about supermarket pricing practices during a cost-of-living crisis, prompting calls for regulatory changes.