ACS

ACS has called on Ministers to act swiftly and decisively to introduce a Grocery Ombudsman now that they have received a formal recommendation from the Competition Commission.

ACS Chief Executive James Lowman said: “Introducing an Ombudsman is a proportionate, affordable and necessary response to the consumer harm identified by the two year grocery investigation. Government must act swiftly on this recommendation.”

ACS took part in the Competition Commission’s two year grocery market investigation that concluded in May 2008. The Commission has failed to get agreement from the supermarkets to submit themselves to an Ombudsman. The Commission has today published the order enacting the Grocery Supply Code of Practice and written to Minister of State Kevin Brennan recommending the introduction of an ombudsman.

Contacts:

Shane Brennan Public Affairs Director
01252 515001/ 07921 372 978
Nina Collins Communications Coordinator
01252 515001

Notes to Editors:

1. ACS (Association of Convenience Stores) is the voice of local shops, representing over 33,500 convenience stores. ACS helps local shops thrive through lobbying, support and networking opportunities.

2. For details of the Competition Commissions statement visit http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/press_rel/2009/aug/pdf/36-09.pdf