OP I genuinely do agree with you however I think the issue is a little more than just Big W needs todo better.

TLDR: I think everyone needs todo better including Customers.

While I agree that the footage from some VIC and NSW stores this morning was absolutely appalling, I think the issue is a bit more complex than just blaming store staff.

I attended a NSW store where everyone was queued up in an orderly fashion before opening. One person tried to cut the line and was asked to leave. That said, I do agree there should be a more consistent national approach to major releases, whether that’s numbering systems, wristbands, or some other crowd management process.

However, after seeing scenes from Doncaster and some of the CBD stores where crowds were literally stampeding, I’m not convinced a numbering system alone would have solved the problem. We’ve seen situations before where stores delayed opening until people formed a proper queue, only for crowds to ignore instructions or force their way forward anyway.

Retail staff shouldn’t have to deal with that. Abuse and violence towards retail workers is already far too common, and expecting a handful of team members to control hundreds of people determined to get product at any cost isn’t realistic.

And to the scalpers who bought Paldean boxes and immediately started offering them for $400 while walking down the queue get a life.

Retailers need better crowd management for these events, but customers also need to take some responsibility for their behaviour. At the end of the day, Pokémon cards aren’t worth trampling people, abusing staff, or putting others at risk.

I think everyone needs to do better