Grocery Suppliers Code of Practice Welcome

Commenting on the new Grocery Suppliers Code of Practice which came into force today, John Drummond, Chief Executive of the Scottish Grocers Federation (SGF) said,

“The new code of practice will help to prevent supermarkets from abusing their dominant position within the grocery market by outlawing supermarket practises which damage suppliers and stifle competition. Hopefully this measure will also protect the interest of consumers.

“The Code of Practice is welcome. However, without an independent Ombudsman to enforce the Code, SGF fear it will not be affective in stamping out the worst practises of the supermarkets.

“We welcome the support of the Scottish Government Rural Affairs Secretary, Richard Lochhead MSP, for an Ombudsman and his concern on whether the role will be added to the Office of Fair Trade’s remit. SGF will respond to the UK Government’s consultation on the role of the enforcement body.”