The Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) has joined other small traders’ groups in welcoming the UK Government’s announcement that a grocery ombudsman will be established to enforce the supply chain’s code of practice.
The establishment of an ombudsman was one of the recommendations made by the Competition Commission following its grocery market inquiry.
Consultation on the shape and powers of the body will commence next month.
John Drummond, chief executive of SGF, said: ”Without an independent ombudsman, the new code of practice, which comes into force in February, would have been ineffective.
“I hope this announcement will introduce a culture change within the major supermarkets and an acknowledgment that they must be open and transparent in their supplier dealings.
“This announcement will protect the interests of consumers, the food industry and suppliers.”
Source: SGF
