Retail giant replaces Countdown nationally with 191 stores
Woolworths has officially launched across the New Zealand market following the announcement it would replace Countdown stores came in July 2023.
Woolworths New Zealand managing director, Spencer Sonn, said today it was an incredibly important moment for the business.
“We know our customers expect us to bring them value with quality fresh products - from produce to meat, seafood and deli, to bakery goods - especially with the cost of living remaining at the top of everyone’s minds. So, our promise is to deliver that in every one of our 191 stores, and if we don’t get it right, we want to be held accountable,” he said.
The launch was accompanied by a renewed commitment by the company to its Fresh or Free guarantee.
“If one of our customers is unhappy with the quality of a fresh product in our stores, we ask that they return it to us, and we’ll refund them and replace the product,” Sonn said. “We stand by our Fresh Food and that’s why we’re the only supermarket that offers a guarantee of Fresh or Free.”
Woolworths has also launched its tagline: ‘That Fresh Food Feeling’.
“Our customers will be able to see how we are bringing ‘That Fresh Food Feeling’ to life: from the work being done within our supply chain, to the focus in-store on product availability and presentation standards, to working with our food rescue partners to reduce waste and help tackle food insecurity, we are making Kiwi lives a little better every day,” Sonn said.
Woolworths New Zealand’s director of brand, Bríd Drohan-Stewart, added: “That Fresh Food Feeling shows our customers what Woolworths New Zealand is all about – feeding your family fresh, healthy food, supporting our local communities, and new and convenient ways to do your shopping.”
As part of the change from Countdown to Woolworths the company has invested in new stores and refurbished older ones including rolling out Everyday Rewards and introducing Everyday Rewards Plus – a team benefits programme. Additionally, Woolworths has opened the new Christchurch Fresh Distribution Centre which the company says will modernise its supply chain and the company will also expand its ultra convenience offering with Milkrun.
