‘Way too soon’: Hot cross buns already on sale at supermarkets

Just three days after Christmas, hot cross buns have already started hitting supermarket shelves across the country — but not everyone is impressed by the early arrival.

It means customers can get their hot cross bun fix nearly four months before Easter Sunday, which will fall on April 21 in 2019.

Shoppers have shared photos of the buns piled on shelves at stores around Australia on social media, and while some can’t wait to get their hands on the sweet treats, others are not impressed.

“Come on. We are still in the Christmas season,” one commentator wrote. “Way too soon,” another added, while a third wrote: “How ridiculous.”

No! Surely not already?! #hotcrossbuns pic.twitter.com/FC5qhLfqAs

— Caron Lefever (@caronlef) December 27, 2018

Another added: “I love hot cross buns, but that is ridiculous. At least let us finish Christmas leftovers first.”

Other, however, didn’t seem to mind, with one writing: “Not sure why people complain when hot cross buns come out early! I wish they were on the shelves all year round.”

Another added: “Why does everyone complain when supermarkets start stocking Hot Cross Buns a day after Christmas. The longer they’re in stores the better.”

And a third wrote: “I personally find it funny that people get worked up because hot cross buns are already in shops. The simple solution if you’re worried by it…don’t purchase them and jog on! Simples!”

A Coles spokesperson told Sunrise on Friday morning: “As some stores are keen for the delicious scent of freshly baked hot cross buns to fill the aisles, some will start baking them from Boxing Day for their customers.”

The supermarket giant has now defended the move to sell the buns early, claiming customers can’t get enough. 

In an official statement, obtained by Starts at 60, Coles Category Manager Freddie Hancock said: “We sold millions of hot cross buns in January last year and are rapt to be able to offer our customers some new flavours to enjoy now, and some more to look forward to in 2019.”

Hot cross buns will be available at Coles supermarket nation-wide from tomorrow.

What do you think? Is it too early to be selling hot cross buns?