Woolworths has rolled out its 2025 Pride campaign in-store and on its social media platforms. But while they have kept the display of their merchandise subdued as compared to previous years, shoppers have continued to criticise the retailer.
On their social media accounts, Woolworths shared a glimpse of their 2025 Pride campaign, which celebrates the month of LGBTQI rights.
The range features clothing and merchandise featuring the LGBTQ flag and the words “South Africa” emblazoned with the rainbow colours.
On its official Instagram and Facebook accounts, Woolworths turned off the comments.
However, social media users used the X platform to share their views.
X user @TheArtist1988 posted: “2025 and Woolworths still celebrating s*d*my. Why should God bless South Africa when His own people (Christians) can’t resist supporting Woolworths?”
@AfrikanerHart posted: “I think Woolworths has learnt their lesson about shoving rainbows down our throats this month. They must have taken a financial hit last year with their woke movement”.
@PolyannaBrey added: “They are not allowing comments on the post. I wonder why?”
CORPORATE COMPANIES SCALE BACK CAMPAIGNS
Meanwhile, CNN has stated that corporations worldwide, particularly in the US, are scaling back their Pride campaigns.
This follows public backlash and their brands being compromised as a result.
Ryan Bos of Capital Pride Alliance said: “They made the decision that to protect their business, they did not want to risk the backlash,” said
Although Pride is celebrated in South Africa in February, the NGO Triangle Project hopes the month will raise awareness and create a more “inclusive world for everyone.”
WHAT DOES WOOLWORTHS SAY?
The South African attempted to contact Woolworths for comment. None has been received at the time of publishing.
Last year, the retailer stated that the campaign encouraged the public to “own, express, and celebrate their identity.”
It added: “Our Pride campaign is part of the Woolworths Inclusive Justice Initiative – acting against discrimination and marginalisation.”
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON WOOLWORTHS’S PRIDE CAMPAIGN?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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