The Groceries Code Adjudicator uncovered Tesco’s failure to pay its suppliers properly, exposing how the supermarket has been able to abuse its market position. In the light of these findings, we welcome Tesco’s contrition and public commitment to change further the way it works with its supply base.
This case demonstrates the value of the adjudicator, which now also has the ability to fine supermarkets that step out of line. This will incentivise better purchasing practices, with the benefits being felt by producers that sell directly to big retailers. The next step is to extend the GCA’s remit to cover the whole supply chain and protect indirect suppliers, including many farmers in Britain and abroad.
Julian Sturdy MP (Conservative)
Andy Biggs
Chief Executive, Traidcraft
Niki Charalampopoulou
Managing Director, Feedback Global
Andrew Clark
Head of Policy, National Farmers' Union
Barbara Crowther
Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Fair-trade Foundation
Kath Dalmeny
Coordinator, Sustain
