Coles has announced that approximately 2,500 products will be removed from its shelves, representing about 10% of the supermarket's total range. The decision, first reported by the Australian Financial Review, aims to reduce 'duplication' across categories such as salt and haircare.
The move builds on an investor presentation last year where Coles's operations and sustainability officer, Anna Croft, revealed plans to 'simplify' the product range. The affected items are expected to be phased out over the coming months.
Consumer experts have expressed mixed views on the decision. One professor warned that reducing product choice could give the major retailer even more market power while limiting customer options.
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