Disgruntled customers took to social media claiming they would no longer shop at Woolworths following Mr Corbett's interview with the 7.30 with Leigh Sales.
The Australian businessman was explaining why he opposes same-sex marriage, but drifted into dividing territory when he brought up slavery and race.
“It’s not discriminatory in any way,” Mr Corbett said.
“It’s a statement that [marriage] is between men and women. A man and a man, and a woman and a woman, can have a similar relationship, but it’s different."
Former managing director of Woolworths Roger Corbett said he opposes same-sex marriage during an ABC interview. Source: ABC Australia
“A black man and a white man are equal, but they’re clearly different. A black man will never be a white man and vice versa.”
Customers were quick to jump on social media and express their anger.
"I love woolies. Except, maybe not for much longer. Your former managing director, Roger Corbett, has said some pretty offensive comments on the 730 report,' one Facebook user wrote.
"You have lost a longtime customer thanks to Roger Corbetts comments on the 730 report tonight," another customer wrote.
Many of those posting comments were mistaken believing Mr Corbett was still the managing director of the supermarket chain, while others were not aware Woolworths was already in support of marriage equality.
Former managing director of Woolworths Roger Corbett said he opposes same-sex marriage during an ABC interview. Source: ABC Australia
"Thanks Woolworths, but no thanks! You're managing director, Roger Corbett is an advocate for the no campaign! I'll take my business somewhere else!" another disgruntled customer wrote.
"I have a choice as to where I shop - and I will choose a brand who is inclusive," another wrote.
However, Woolworths' social media was responding to many comments solidifying the supermarket's support for same-sex marriage.
"Mr Corbett is a former employee and his views do not represent Woolworths. We believe marriage equality is not just a social but also a workplace issue," Woolworths' social media responded.
"For that reason, we pledged our support for marriage equality in August.
"We’re proud to embrace diversity and want to be a community where all our people are free to be themselves without fear of prejudice or discrimination. Diversity means recognising and respecting our differences, including religious and political beliefs."
Some customers defended Woolworths claiming it was a long time since Mr Corbett had been in charge, while others said everyone has a right to their own belief.
"He was CEO 10 years ago. Your rants are doing the cause a massive disservice by evidencing how uninformed you on about the topic,' one Facebook user wrote.
One social media user reminded angry customers, "They [Woolworths] have already said they support equality".
Mr Corbett said during the interview he was respectful of the union between gay people, but opposed same-sex marriage on the statement it was between a man and a woman.
SBS World News has contacted Woolworths for comment.
