ACCC probe into grocery prices begins

Posted by Daniel Palmer on 1st April 2008

The ACCC inquiry into grocery prices will start today and will include a review of all members of the supply chain. The extent of competition in the industry is to be established at the supply, wholesale and retail level. With the perception amongst end consumers that they are being overcharged and with some farmers complaining that supermarkets are selling their goods at a marked increase to what they received for them the inquiry will certainly stimulate interest.

The ACCC claims that the inquiry will establish whether or not consumers are getting a fair deal. However, the extent of their powers to address public concern has been questioned following public discontent with their perceived inability to deal with petrol prices rising without due cause.