ACS

 ACS is calling upon the Government to act on the recommendations created from the Competition Commission’s (CC) investigation into the Grocery Market and has written to MPs calling for Parliamentary scrutiny.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “We are seeking support from across the political spectrum in an effort to combat the delays and prevarication over the implementation of an Ombudsman. A new Ombudsman is vital to creating a sustainable and diverse market that delivers for consumers.”

The proposal for a Grocery Ombudsman came after a two year investigation by the expert panel convened by the Competition Commission. Since making its recommendations the implementation has been delayed and undermined because:

• the CC has no power to enforce the Ombudsman and instead has to get voluntary agreement with the main supermarket groups;
• the CC has stated that if no agreement is reached then it would recommend to Government to impose the Ombudsman through legislation, but
• the Government has been equivocal about what they will do if such a recommendation for an Ombudsman is made.

Mr Lowman continued: “Government has failed to take a lead in this process and as such have allowed uncertainty and delay to undermine the chance for a fairer and more diverse market. Having received the recommendations of a detailed and extensive inquiry there is no justification for the Gov not driving forward the implementation of a remedy put forward by the independent competition authorities .”

“Some of the supermarket companies have sought to convince Government, the media and politicians that the Ombudsman will limit their ability to keep food prices low for consumers. This is not true; and is a cynical exploitation of consumer fears. The costs of an Ombudsman are small, and the restrictions designed to remove the worst abuses of buying power that all leading companies disavow.”

ACS has written to MPs asking them to write to the Secretary of State calling for action and also to sign up to Early Day Motion 2030, and will continue their on going campaign to get action from the Government on this issue.

Mr Lowman concluded: “This action is a crucial part of our campaign for a fairer grocery market”.

Contacts:

Shane Brennan Public Affairs Director
01252 515001/ 07921 372 978

Nina Collins Communications Coordinator
01252 515001

Michael Saxton/ Grappa PR
Julie Kirby 020 7602 9222

Notes to Editors:

1. ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of local shops, representing over 33,000 convenience stores. ACS helps local shops thrive through lobbying, support and networking opportunities.