1st July 2008
A legal appeal by Tesco over proposed new planning tests is 'not in the best long term interests of consumers', the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) has claimed.
Tesco has lodged an appeal against the Competition Commission's recommendation that competition tests are introduced in grocery markets where consumers are seen to be losing out.
The tests would apply in markets where 'consumers get a poorer retail offer in terms of prices, quality and service, while grocery retailers with strong local market positions earn additional profits due to weak competition'.
Tesco said the analysis would add to bureaucracy and could jeopardise long-term regeneration schemes.
"Planning decisions should be taken by local people who understand the needs of their community," said Lucy Neville-Rolfe, Tesco's corporate and legal affairs director.
However, the ACS has labelled the chain's appeal a 'spoiling tactic', designed to slow down the policy-making process.
"Tesco's desire to quash even this indicates how divorced they have become from what is in the best long term interests of consumers," said ACS Chief Executive James Lowman.
"This is a stark indication that they will stop at nothing to stamp out choice in local markets."
Tesco competition appeal 'a spoiling tactic'
Tesco has lodged an appeal against the Competition Commission's recommendation that competition tests are introduced in grocery markets where consumers are seen to be losing out.
The tests would apply in markets where 'consumers get a poorer retail offer in terms of prices, quality and service, while grocery retailers with strong local market positions earn additional profits due to weak competition'.
Tesco said the analysis would add to bureaucracy and could jeopardise long-term regeneration schemes.
"Planning decisions should be taken by local people who understand the needs of their community," said Lucy Neville-Rolfe, Tesco's corporate and legal affairs director.
However, the ACS has labelled the chain's appeal a 'spoiling tactic', designed to slow down the policy-making process.
"Tesco's desire to quash even this indicates how divorced they have become from what is in the best long term interests of consumers," said ACS Chief Executive James Lowman.
"This is a stark indication that they will stop at nothing to stamp out choice in local markets."
Tags: Regulations, Retail & Shop
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