An Aussie mum has been outraged to see a particular item being displayed near the check out at Coles, telling the supermarket to “leave our kids alone”.
Are condoms an appropriate product to display near a supermarket’s check out? One Australian mum thinks not.
The woman was shocked to discover the display at her local Coles, which usually holds small items like chocolates or gum to grab at the check out, was selling Skyn and Durex condoms and strawberry-flavoured Durex lubricant.
The display appeared to have a health theme, also selling pain relief, cold medications, vitamins, hand sanitiser, electrolyte tablets and wipes.
She posted a photo to Twitter, writing: “Coles, you realise 6-7yo’s can read yeah? Condoms are not a good alternative to sweets. #LeaveOurKidsAlone”
The woman describes herself as a “Gen X mum of grown adults”. Generation X are in their 40s and 50s.
Coles replied to the woman’s tweet saying they were “sorry to see this” and asked her to provide more details so they could look into it further.
However, in a statement to media, the supermarket giant defended the display.
It said the products displayed at the checkout were popular with customers who had forgotten to grab items when shopping or who might have been embarrassed to carry personal items around the store.
“Coles offers a selection of items conveniently located at the register that includes drinks, snacks and healthcare items,” a spokesperson said.
“This range is based on customer feedback and sales data that shows proven demand for last minute medicinal and family planning products.”
One person wrote to the disgruntled customer on Twitter, “this isn’t America”.
“Keep your puritanical nonsense at home. The fact that you’re conflating sex with children says a lot more about you than Coles,” he said.
