Coles pulls Chinese New Year mishap from shelves

Coles has failed in its attempt to help customers celebrate the Year of the Monkey after it was revealed their lucky bamboo plants are labelled with last year’s Chinese zodiac word ‘goat’.

Originally reported by marketing blog Mumbrella, the pot plant's label features a cartoon monkey as well the Chinese character for sheep or goat.

The Year of the Goat started on 9 February 2015 and ends on Sunday. The Year of the Monkey starts on February 8th on the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle.

Users on Chinese social media website Weibo were quick to joke about the mishap, with one commenting that the monkey's name could possibly be Sheep.

A Coles spokesperson confirmed to Fairfax Media that they were removing the product from sale.

"We're sorry for the mix-up and have decided to remove the product from our shelves. We hope everyone has a very happy Chinese New Year,” the spokesperson said.

For the most part, customers haven't scolded the supermarket for their mistake.

"We should support western brands who take part in Chinese traditions & holidays - a blooper is ok, it's how we learn," Twitter user Michael Ashton wrote.

"How can Coles cope? Valentine's day, Australia Day and Chinese New Year, so much merchandising so little time," Neil Bibby wrote.