Woolworths - Online deliveries - mall of africa

Understandably I am incredibly frustrated with the recent changes to Woolworths’ online delivery system. Let’s break down some of the concerns I would like to raise with the removal of bags and charging those of us with some sense to continue to use them given this shoddy solution:

1. Cold Chain and Efficiency:
o The cold chain is disrupted as repacking in the sun can indeed impact food safety.
o Additionally, drivers may face penalties due to fewer deliveries, affecting their livelihood.
o It’s essential for companies to strike a balance between efficiency and customer satisfaction. It is noticeable how this retailer in particular is less customer centric and price sensitive.
2. Tote Bin Weight and Consumer Assistance:
o Expecting drivers to handle heavy tote bins all day is challenging, the same can be said for clients who are elderly, pregnant, or unwell.
o Legal recourse due to injury must be taken.
o The drivers are contractors with no rights no doubt.
3. Environmental Impact:
o Woolworths’ decision to phase out single-use plastic bags is commendable from an environmental standpoint, the approach however, not at all commendable, in fact ridiculous.
4. Legal Recourse and Safety:
o If drivers or consumers are injured due to the weight of tote bins, there should indeed be legal recourse.
o Ensuring safety for all parties involved is crucial.
5. Product Packaging and Sustainability:
o While Woolworths claims to save the planet, it’s essential to consider the overall impact.
o Most product packages are still made of plastic and polystyrene, which aren’t eco-friendly.
o Sanitary pads and disposable diapers, also contribute to waste yet no one seems to bring this to light.
6. Customer Choice:
o As a regular online shopper, I have options thankfully and will exercise the right to boycott this retailer in particular. I am exploring and encourage others to consider the same and opt to support more suitable retailers we better resonate with dependent on our views of course.
7. Challenge for Executives:
o When Woolworths’ executives test this latest poorly made decision by carrying a fully loaded tote bin for a week to every meeting and upstairs/downstairs may just bring about a more intelligent or practical solution. Publicizing this could highlight the issue.
I could continue at length, though trust the point is sufficiently made. Whilst to Woollies, customer feedback has become less important, the evidence in clear in the lack of response and action taken on consumer service and billing us for goods not delivered, we certainly should not be silenced. Our feedback matters, and companies should strive to improve their services. Hopefully, Woolworths will address these concerns and find more sustainable solutions such as a token system for eco-friendly fabric bags perhaps or the use of paper bags as many companies have taken to over the last several years.

Still no response - sad indeed.

I am not afforded any answer nor have been called back despite leaving a message on products charged for and not delivered, bags being sent (as paid for) yet online fails to put the groceries in the bags.