Coles Denies Wanniassa Store Closure Rumour
Coles has officially denied plans to close its Wanniassa supermarket in Canberra's south, after a rumour spread through the community causing widespread concern. The supermarket giant confirmed the store will remain open, putting an end to speculation that had alarmed residents and local leaders.
Rumour Sparks Community Backlash
The rumour, which circulated on social media and local community groups, suggested that Coles Wanniassa would shut its doors in the near future. The speculation prompted strong reactions from shoppers and local representatives, who feared the loss of a key retail anchor in the Wanniassa Shopping Centre.
According to a Coles spokesperson, the company was aware of the rumour and moved quickly to clarify the situation. "We can confirm that Coles Wanniassa is not closing, and we have no plans to close the store," the spokesperson said. "We understand the community's concern and want to reassure customers that they can continue to shop with us as usual."
Local Leaders Express Relief
Tuggeranong Community Council chair Cathy Keenan welcomed the clarification, noting the importance of the store to the local area. "The Wanniassa Coles is a vital part of the community, not just for shopping but also for employment and social interaction," she said. "Many residents were worried about the impact of a closure, so this news is a relief."
The council had been preparing to lobby Coles to reconsider any potential closure, but those efforts are now unnecessary. Keenan added that the rumour highlighted the need for better communication from retailers about their long-term plans.
No Change to Store Operations
Coles confirmed that the Wanniassa store will continue to operate under its current trading hours and services. The store, which has been a fixture in the shopping centre for decades, employs dozens of local staff. The company did not provide details on what sparked the rumour but urged customers to rely on official sources for information.
The incident is not the first time a false closure rumour has caused concern in Canberra. Similar speculation about other supermarkets has arisen in the past, often fueled by social media. Coles said it remains committed to its Canberra stores and is focused on serving the community.
