Edition 46: News from the Adjudicator
Read the latest newsletter from the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA).
We’re now well into the Golden Quarter, a crucial period for the groceries sector. Retailers’ focus on consumers in this period must not mean any increase in unfair treatment of suppliers. I used my latest round of progress meetings to ensure retailers are maintaining Code compliance. My 2027 annual survey, launching early next year, will provide further insight into retailer behaviour and inform my work.
Progress meetings
These are my regular discussions with each designated retailer’s Code Compliance Officer (CCO). I use these meetings to address issues that I have identified through my annual survey as well as hearing directly from suppliers and trade associations. When suppliers contact me, their identity is protected by law. I will not compromise their anonymity when raising concerns with retailers.
I ensure that retailers take proportionate action in response to issues, which may include changes to processes, guidance, training, communications or supplier-facing practices. During these recent meetings, for example, I discussed with one retailer how it was responding to De-listing issues by refreshing its internal Code training with detailed case studies and planning further interactive training for its commercial team. I keep a close eye on the action retailers take and follow up at subsequent meetings.
In my October meetings, I verified retailers’ progress against previously agreed actions, their responses to Code-related issues, and their management of changes within their businesses that may pose compliance risks. I also scrutinised retailers’ handling of cost price increase requests, including response times, buyer training and expectations set by commercial leaders. I made clear that negotiations must not expose suppliers to excessive risks or unexpected costs.
Early contact with retailers, including with CCOs, can help suppliers resolve issues quickly and constructively. I was clear during these meetings that I believe that CCOs must ensure that suppliers feel confident to raise issues. We discussed CCOs’ commitment that they will hear concerns in confidence and the retailer commitment that suppliers face no negative consequences for speaking up.
2027 survey
My 2027 annual survey will launch on 11 January, remaining open until 21 February. The survey will allow suppliers to confidentially share their experiences of working with the 14 retailers over the past year. I will take the survey findings seriously, take clear action in response and will ensure that retailers do the same. Your feedback will directly inform my priorities.
Look out for further communications in the new year with details on how to participate.
Further information
- Keep up to date with the GCA at www.gov.uk/GCA, by signing up to receive the GCA newsletter or by following the GCA LinkedIn account.
- If you would like to contact the GCA confidentially about a Code issue, please email enquiries@groceriescode.gov.uk or report issues anonymously via telltheGCA.co.uk.