Woolworths supermarkets are being accused of breaking ANZAC Day trading restrictions after some employees entered stores early to prepare for opening.

According to Fairfax, Woolworths team members entered their stores as early as 10am to prepare BBQ chickens, sushi and baked goods for the allowable 1pm opening.

If Woolworths is found guilty of breaking trading restrictions it can be fined up to AUS $11, 000 for each store involved.

Woolworths is however confident that it did not do anything wrong. A spokesperson for the company told Fairfax that the work performed in-store before doors opened was undertaken voluntarily by salaried managers. The Woolworths spokesperson said this was acceptable under the law and that the supermarkets were keen to be ready for 1pm.

The NSW Industrial Relations information on ANZAC Day states the public holiday is a restricted trading day and that “this means shops cannot open for customers until after this time.” There is no statement about retailers preparing before the opening time for customers.

Australian Food News attempted to contact Woolworths regarding this matter but did not receive a response prior to publication.

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