Navigating the aisles of your local Woolworths can be a straightforward affair, but sometimes, the modern shopping experience throws us a curveball that leaves even the most seasoned shoppers scratching their heads. Recently, a peculiar incident at a Woolies self-serve checkout in Queensland has sparked a mix of confusion among customers, and it’s all to do with a seemingly innocuous purchase: zero per cent alcohol beer.
Imagine the surprise when a shopper, expecting a quick transaction for their non-alcoholic beverage, was halted by a prompt on the self-serve screen: ‘B/Beer Zero 355ml requires age verification. Please put item aside. Our attendant will assist you prior to payment.’ This left the customer puzzled, especially since a similar purchase only two days earlier hadn’t triggered the same request.
The incident has opened up a can of worms, with other Woolies patrons sharing their own bewildering experiences. From being carded for buying butter knives and bottle openers due to knife laws, to the unexpected need to prove one’s age when purchasing a wooden cutting board, it seems that age verification prompts are popping up in the most unexpected places.
But why is this happening? A Woolworths spokesperson has shed some light on the matter, explaining that across all stores, age verification is required for low-alcoholic drinks and any non-alcoholic drinks that emulate traditional alcoholic beverages. This policy, which was introduced three years ago based on feedback and the nature of the products, aims to regulate the sale of ‘low or non-alcoholic alternative’ to an alcoholic product, even though it’s not a legal requirement.
The conversation doesn’t end at the supermarket checkout. The broader implications of such policies are evident in other retail environments, too. Take, for example, the recent changes at Bunnings Warehouse, where new laws in Queensland have classified knives and other items as controlled items. This has led to garden hoes being locked behind perspex screens and covered in warning signs, much to the bemusement of customers who find the new rule ‘weird’ and ‘ridiculous.’
Marg Walford, Queensland Bunnings General Manager of Operations, has stated that the hardware chain has taken steps to comply with the new legislation, including secure storage and clear signage, while continuing to require proof of age for the purchase of bladed items.
Have you ever experienced something similar at Woolworths or other retailers? What are your thoughts on these policies—do they strike you as reasonable precautions or unnecessary complications? Share your perspective in the comments; we’d love to hear your stories and insights!
Also read: Bunnings shoppers react to new rules on bladed tools
