Coles and Woolworths are among the world’s most profitable supermarkets. Source: AAP / Joel Carrett

I’d been hoping that they would be behaving in a way that was running a business, but also and work with them. That they were doing what’s best for their communities.

I made the snap decision to never set foot in a Coles or Woolworths-owned business again.

Making the switch

It’s been 12 months now and my food shopping looks completely different. I take a lot more time and consideration with what I buy and who I buy it from.

Ella wants to inspire others to find new places to buy their groceries.

I am no longer unconsciously pushing a broken trolley around the same supermarket aisle listening to Coles radio under flickering fluorescent lights. Food shopping now is a fun experience.

My food wastage has gone down, the quality has gone up and yet, the clincher in all this: the cost has almost halved.

A graphic showing Australia’s most-distrusted brands Source: SBS

Question of geography

I have also tried my hand at growing my own food — to limited success, but even that has been such a satisfying hobby.

After boycotting the major supermarkets, Ella has started growing some of her own food.

In this last year I have been able to connect with others online who are looking for ways to avoid shopping with the major two.

I feel a sense of responsibility to those people who have no choice. I want to put my money where my mouth is and strive for change.

Reconnecting with food and community

I would love to see the duopoly broken up.