Woolworths has confirmed a major change to its deli department, affecting thousands of customers across the country.
The retail giant has revealed that stores will no longer give customers the option of purchasing items from the deli counter in online orders.
A Woolworths spokesperson has told 7NEWS.com.au the move is part of a new review that the supermarket chain is undertaking.
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“We’re listening to the customer feedback and always looking at ways to improve the freshness of the deli goods we have for home delivery,” the spokesperson said. “We’re undertaking a review of our delivery processes so we can continue to ensure we’re providing the best offering for our customers. “Where we can, we will offer customers a suitable alternative if their preferred choice is not currently available.”
Disgruntled shoppers have already taken to social media to voice their disapproval over the move.
“How come we can no longer buy deli items or your fresh baked bread like sourdough via online shopping?” asked one Facebook user.
Another wrote: “Can you tell me why I can’t buy any deli ham online at the Devonport store please? There’s only some of the range of ham that’s available in-store and the rest isn’t available at all.
“It’s really inconvenient to people who can’t physically go in.
Added a third: “What’s with not more deliveries of deli sliced meat? Is kind of a staple for everyone.”
One more said: “I haven’t been able to purchase most deli items for over three weeks.”
Last year, Woolworths confirmed that it was trialling Deli Express sections in a handful of its Queensland stores.
It’s believed these stores have been selected for the trial due to lower customer demand for the fresh delis, compared to other Woolworths stores.
7NEWS.com.au understands that sales of pre-packaged products are growing at Woolworths, while service sales, including the fresh deli, have been declining over the years.
It’s believed there have been no employee impacts as a result of the Deli Express trial.