Billionaire Adrian Portelli showed up to greet a packed crowed this morning at the start of his promised giveaway of $150,000 worth of groceries in Sydney.
Portelli, a promotions guru and property investor, earlier announced the giveaway at supermarkets in Penrith and Fairfield West today.
The first giveaway began at 9.30am at the Coles connected to Nepean Village on Reserve Street, Penrith.
A massive crowd gathered before the giveaway began, with some people having lined up from 4am.
Police and extra security were also present for the event, which was only announced yesterday.
Portelli said the crowd was “incredible” and showed how much support was needed in the community.
“We don’t contact the media, we just come out here,” he said.
“We’ve been doing this for a long time. We’ve done it in multiple states, so it’s the least we can do if we can get out there and share.”
The action will later shift to the Coles on Hamilton Road at Fairfield West at noon.
Thousands of people are expected to line up again, particularly with the cost of living crisis pushing people closer to a Christmas crunch.
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Extra security is expected to be on hand at both sites to contain the crowds.
NSW Police said in a brief statement they were “aware of an upcoming event and will monitor”.
Portelli, the founder of auto enthusiast club LMCT+, made waves earlier this year when he purchased all five homes on offer at The Block 2024 auction day.