Victorian bakers will step up their fight against the premature sale of hot cross buns in Coles and Woolworths with a 'peaceful rally' this Monday.
Last month, Ferguson Plarre Bakehouses CEO Steve Plarre sent an open letter to the heads of Coles and Woolworths asking that they help keep Easter special by not selling hot cross buns straight after Christmas.
After not receiving a response, bakers from across the state have decided to deliver their message to the public with picket signs, chants and “hot cross Christmas carols”.
They will gather on the steps of the State Library of Victoria next week.
“It’s a real shame that we need to take to the streets to be heard on this matter,” Plarre said.
“Bakers across Australia agree that the supermarkets are stretching their promotions beyond what’s considered reasonable.
“This is about family values being honoured to keep Easter special.”
In support of the rally, some bakeries will sell “Not Cross Buns” prior to Easter. Profits from the smiley face fruit buns will go to the Starlight Foundation in an effort to grant wishes for sick children.
Australian bakers want the major supermarkets to only sell Hot Cross Buns six weeks before Easter. This time frame has been openly supported by Australia’s National Baking Industry Association and the Baking Association of Australia, who represent more than 1000 bakeries across Australia.
