Failing to Learn From Disney and Budweiser’s Mistakes

Commentary The silly and “Woolie” thinking behind Australian retail giant Woolworth’s (and later Aldi’s) decision not to sell Australia Day merchandise in the lead-up to Australia’s national day, the 26th of January, is both appalling and unpatriotic. It literally sells Australians short, and denies them a choice, while also betraying shareholder expectations. The management clearly has not only failed to deliver for their Australian customers, they have also failed to heed the Walt Disney and Budweiser lesson of “go woke, go broke.” Their major competitor Coles is wisely selling Australia Day merchandise which will see customers rightly change allegiance between the two major retailers....