The supermarket chain has faced backlash in recent weeks after it announced it would no longer stock Australia Day merchandise, citing a “gradual decline in demand” for the products.

“We know many people like to use this day as a time to get together and we offer a huge variety of products to help customers mark the day as they choose,” a spokesperson said at the time.

It’s now been revealed that stores have been urged to display the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags “outside stores, sites and support offices were practicable”, according to the company’s Reconciliation Action Plan.

Woolworths, which launched its plan in May 2023, is one of many Australian companies to create such documents “in the belief that our actions will make a meaningful contribution toward reconciliation and closing the gap”.

The plan was not launched in relation to the supermarket’s Australia Day decision.

The rollout of the flags is due to be reviewed throughout 2024 and is listed as the responsibility of manager as well as format and network development.

It is unclear whether all stores are required to display the flag.

Woolworths’ head office displays the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags outside its buildings along with the Australian flag.

It comes as the ire over the Australia Day decision is met with accusations of hypocrisy as many of the supermarket outlets are offering food specials over the long weekend.

“Great value for the Australia Day long weekend,” the specials website reads.

The supermarket hit back against critics, arguing it offered food and produce specials for all occasions.

“Customers across all our stores can also expect to see a large range of great value food offers and specials to enjoy with family and friends next week in the lead up to and for the Australia Day long weekend,” a spokesperson said.