They say opposites attract, but when it comes to grocery shopping, some habits might just be too much to handle. One comedian’s controversial use of a supermarket discount coupon has Australians questioning whether this is a simple oversight—or a relationship-ending offence.
Tom Siegert, a Melbourne-based comedian and podcaster, recently shared an anecdote that struck a chord with many couples. He said his wife described his action as ‘unforgivable’ while others agreed that it indeed was a ‘grounds for divorce.’
His supermarket act sparking a debate online involves the strategic use of a monthly 10 per cent discount offered by Woolworths to shoppers who have purchased a financial or mobile product from the supermarket chain. The discount is a savvy shopper’s dream, allowing for significant savings on a big grocery haul when swiped with the Everyday Rewards card at checkout.
However, this precious discount can only be redeemed once a month. This is where the plot thickens and the marital ‘drama’ unfolds. Siegert, in a move that many deemed ‘unforgivable,’ used this discount on a small purchase of a Mexican salad bowl, a tin of tuna, and a can of Coca-Cola, totalling $10.80.
His wife, who had been saving the discount for her larger weekly shop, was less than amused.
Siegert’s Facebook post, complete with a photo of his finger poised over the ‘yes’ button to apply the discount, quickly generated over 1,300 comments. The post was met with a mix of laughter and solidarity from those who understood the gravity of his ‘crime.’ Comments poured in, with some humorously suggesting that such an act was indeed ‘divorceable.’
Another commented, ‘This would annoy me too. I use my 10% off to get the maximum savings of $50 off a $500 food shop. Why use 10% off a $10 lunch for a savings of $1?’
‘I don’t blame her. It [annoys me] reading about your selfishness! Kudos to your wife,’ wrote a different person.
Meanwhile, someone else quipped, “There should be a pop-up [showing] ‘Did you ask your wife?’ when you apply it.”
‘I did screenshot this to the wife. I didn’t see the problem but the sisterhood [is] strong and stick together,’ chimed in another.
The incident has sparked a conversation about the unwritten rules of household economics and the importance of communication in relationships. It’s a reminder that what may seem like a small decision can have larger implications, especially when it comes to shared finances and the expectations that couples have of one another.
So let’s take a step back and consider the broader implications of this Woolworths coupon debacle. It’s not just about a discount but about the value we place on saving money and making the most of our resources. For many over 50s, who are often on fixed incomes or managing retirement funds, every dollar counts. The allure of saving $30-$40 on a big shop versus a mere $1 on a quick lunch grab is a no-brainer.
Meanwhile, for those curious about how to access this discount, it’s available to customers who have purchased one of Woolworths’ insurance products or have a mobile phone plan with the supermarket. Once activated, it offers a tempting 10 per cent off a single shop once a month, up to a value of $50.
As we chuckle at Siegert’s domestic misadventure, let’s also take a moment to reflect on our shopping habits. Have you ever been guilty of a similar ‘unforgivable’ act? Or perhaps you’ve been on the receiving end, stewing over a squandered discount? Share your stories with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.
Also read: Woolworths introduces multi-factor authentication to Everyday Rewards program for increased security
I usually buy online but last month my daughter , who does it online for us was puzzled when the 10% came up as unavailable.
I had gone shopping with my other daughter and spent a whole $4 and I’m sure I had said I didn’t want to use any discounts but there it was, 40 cents off.
If you don’t have insurance or mobile plan, with extra rewards you get more value:
https://www.everyday.com.au/extra.html