Coles has announced the return of its Easter hot cross buns, launching them just one day after Christmas. The popular supermarket chain will make the seasonal range available on December 26, 2025, with expectations to sell over two million hot cross buns before New Year’s Day.
This early release has drawn mixed reactions from consumers. While some are excited, with one shopper stating, “About time, I’ve been waiting since April for them to make a return,” others expressed frustration that the festive spirit of Christmas has not yet concluded. “Bloody hell… Christmas isn’t even over yet,” commented another shopper, reflecting a sentiment shared by many. The controversy surrounding the early sale of these buns highlights the ongoing debate about holiday commercialization.
The hot cross buns, priced at $4.50 for a pack or two for $8, include traditional flavors alongside chocolate, apple and cinnamon, and mini fruit varieties. Notably, Coles has introduced a twist with the Arnott’s Iced VoVo hot cross buns, inspired by the iconic Australian biscuit.
Beyond consumer reactions, the timing of this launch serves a charitable purpose. Coles has pledged to donate 20 cents from every pack sold to the children’s cancer charity Redkite, from December 26 until January 1, 2026. This initiative is part of a long-standing partnership with Redkite that has raised over $55 million for families affected by childhood cancer over the past decade.
Brad Gorman, General Manager of Commercial, Bakery, Dairy & Frozen at Coles, emphasized the significance of this initiative. He stated, “Aussies have made hot cross buns a post-Christmas favourite, and we’re proud to turn that tradition into meaningful support for families navigating the reality of childhood cancer.”
The impact of such support is illustrated through the story of nine-year-old Dakoda, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia just days before her fourth birthday. Now in remission, Dakoda and her family benefited greatly from Redkite’s services, including emotional support and financial assistance. Her mother, Michelle, expressed gratitude for the help they received, saying, “Redkite has been a constant support, letting us focus on Dakoda’s health without worrying about everything else.”
Monique Keighery, Chief Executive Officer of Redkite, praised Coles for its commitment, noting that their partnership has been instrumental in providing essential support to families during challenging times. “The donation per pack on Coles Hot Cross Buns makes a meaningful difference,” she stated. The funds raised through this campaign will support Redkite’s national family support services, which include counselling and financial relief for essential needs.
As Coles embarks on this early holiday tradition, the dual focus on consumer enjoyment and charitable support marks a significant step in their efforts to engage with the community, fostering both festive spirit and social responsibility. The launch not only revives a beloved seasonal product but also contributes to a vital cause, reminding shoppers that their purchases can have a profound impact on the lives of families facing childhood cancer.
