IN THE NEWS THIS WEEK: Why Australian politicians from the Prime Minister to Premiers love Bunnings
It’s no secret Aussies love Bunnings – and it seems our politicians are just as infatuated with the DIY mecca, for one cunning reason.
Earlier this month, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk grabbed a Bunnings snag while chatting to shoppers at the hardware giant as part of her state’s vaccination campaign.
Last week, WA Premier Mark McGowan also urged the public to “get a snag and roll up for WA” in a hilarious TikTok urging people to get jabbed at Bunnings.
It seems Australian politicians are just as obsessed with Bunnings as everyday voters are, with leaders from across the political spectrum falling over themselves to be snapped at an outlet or to casually name drop the retailer in conversation.
According to public relations expert Nicole Reaney, our politicians’ universal love for the store was likely part of a calculated plan.
She told news.com.au pollies were likely hoping to align themselves with such an iconic, well-loved brand in the minds of voters, and that including Bunnings in the vaccine roll out specifically was a smart move to encourage vaccination uptake.
“Unlike the vaccine or politicians themselves, Bunnings is not divisive and is an adored retailer to many Aussies,” Ms Reaney explained.
Ms Williams said it was rare for politicians to align themselves with one particular major retailer, but said it could also be an attempt to boost vaccination rates among men in particular, or perhaps due to the fact that Bunnings was simply more willing to come to the party.
Nicole Reaney, Director of InsideOut PR and founder of influencer agency, #AsSeenOn . Nicole has extensive experience in corporate and consumer PR and Communications and is available to comment on topics.