UPDATE: A growing number of Australians are abandoning major supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths in favor of food co-ops, as fresh produce prices continue to rise. Just this month, Box Divvy opened its first Melbourne hub in the northeastern suburb of Templestowe, promising fresh produce at about 30 percent the cost of traditional grocery stores.
In a week filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and eggs, many families are finding creative ways to utilize their bounty. One family, for instance, has transformed their co-op haul into pumpkin soup and hearty salads. As Box Divvy expands, with plans for additional hubs in Croydon North, Sunbury, and Berwick, more households are reevaluating their grocery shopping habits.
Australians currently spend an average of $108 per week at Coles and Woolworths, which together dominate 67 percent of the grocery market. These supermarkets, often derisively dubbed “ColesWorth,” are among the most profitable grocers globally. A recent study by the competition regulator revealed that grocery prices have soared over the past five years, raising concerns about the sustainability of these giants’ practices.
“Supermarkets remain where most Australians buy their fresh produce,” stated a spokesperson for grower body AUSVEG. The organization emphasizes that vegetable growers must receive fair and sustainable prices for their products, as many consumers grow frustrated with the quality and seasonal availability of supermarket produce.
With this shift towards co-ops, families are not only saving money but also gaining access to fresher, locally sourced ingredients. Box Divvy’s marketing encourages customers to “unsupermarket,” challenging the status quo of grocery shopping in Australia.
As the trend develops, many are eager to see if this model can effectively compete with the established supermarket giants that have long dominated the market. The potential for better quality food coupled with lower prices may change how Australians view their grocery shopping habits forever.
As Box Divvy continues to expand and more families join the food co-op movement, the future of grocery shopping in Australia looks poised for significant transformation. Keep an eye on this growing trend as it may reshape food sourcing across the nation.
