Australian customers go on sales

In recent days, free plastic bags are banned in Australian supermarkets. Customers seem to have no sympathy for this: they scold and curse – and attack the staff.

In Australia, supermarket employees do not spend more on disposable plastic bags to save the environment. This has obviously made many customers in a rage. Consumers say that they cursed and cursed customers who were becoming ferocious: in one case, a man even had his hands in the neck of a salesman

One year remained at the two major supermarket chains of the country, "Woolworths" and "Coles". announced that they would replace the free plastic bags with reusable bags at the price of 15 cents each. The action on "Woolworths" actually began on June 20, but the chain had to postpone the project due to clients being mutinied for ten days. "Coles" has been charging bags since Sunday.

Attacks Are Not Isolated

The wholesalers and retailers union questioned their members about the abolition of free plastic bags. Of the 141 respondents to date, 61 reported being verbally or physically badaulted by angry clients.

Union representative Ben Harris said, "A male client strongly criticized a salesman, gave him free plastic bags and apologized." When she wanted to help him scan a produced a little later, he put his hands behind his neck from behind. "

There is no excuse for violence

Other customers throw goods on the ground, swearing and taking storm. the supermarket, according to union members. Union leader Gerard Dwyer said the "frustration" of some clients may be understandable – but there is "no excuse for violence against staff." [Dwyer] Says some customers brought dirty plastic bags from the house to protest. "The customers wanted to put their purchases in bags of vomit, used diapers or rat droppings." This is "unacceptable" – also because it represents a "serious risk to the health" of staff.

Violation of ban threatens heavy fines

In the fight against plastic waste, almost all Australian states plan a. The exception is always New South Wales. Traders who do not comply will be subject to penalties up to 6,000 Australian dollars (3,800 euros).