Supermarket ombudsmand

Comment from Nicola Currie eastern region director CLA (Country Land and Business Association) on the announcement by Consumer Minister Kevin Brennan that the Government is to introduce an ombudsman to enforce the Groceries Supply Code of Practice .

"This watchdog must have teeth, must be willing to use them and be allowed to do so.

"The key will also be quick and effective implementation. This announcement is only the beginning; it is its implementation that will make the real difference.

"The CLA has campaigned for an ombudsman to protect producers and suppliers from restrictive practices by large retailers. This has long been a major priority in our Food Chain Initiative, and the appointment is a direct result of lobbying. We will continue to be involved over the coming months, helping make sure that the new Ombudsman will provide safeguards to producers and consumers alike.

"Large retailers can impose unrealistic conditions on their smaller suppliers. These suppliers are expected to carry a disproportionate share of the risks and costs, and it is fair to say that many have found dealing with supermarkets particularly intimidating.

"Of course, the industry is heavily dependent on supermarkets as customers, but these trading conditions have caused great uncertainty for many producers. The news that the Government is to implement the recommendations of the CLA and its industry supporters is to be welcomed, and could offer a turning point for many smaller producers who are struggling to develop their markets.

For further information:

Nicola Currie, regional director  CLA               01284 789201  or 07702 928870

Sally Smith, CLA PR                                           01553 764422   Mobile: 07729 448046

Notes for editors:
1. The announcement, on January 13, that Consumer minister Kevin Brennan has accepted the Competition Commission's recommendation for a body to enforce the Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GSCOP) can be found at:http://nds.coi.gov.uk/clientmicrosite/Content/Detail.aspx?ClientId=431&NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=410284&SubjectId=36

2. Details of the CLA's Food Chain Initiative can be found at: http://www.cla.org.uk/Policy_Work/Food_Chain_Initiative/

CLA Eastern Region comprises the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.

Nicola Currie – Regional Director - Eastern Region

Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Middlesex, Norfolk and Suffolk

Phone: 01284 789201
FAX: 01284 789559
Email nicola.currie@cla.org.uk