Co-Op Admits Unlawfully Blocking Rival Store Openings
The Co-op has admitted breaching an order aimed at giving shoppers choice and access to the cheapest prices, blocking rival supermarkets from opening nearby more than 100 times. The UK's competition watchdog found that Co-op had breached an order which limits supermarkets' ability to prevent nearby land being used by rival retailers across England, Scotland, and Wales. This issue affects consumers who struggle to shop around to save money due to limited availability of cheaper options in their local area.
- The widespread practice of restricting competitor access can have severe consequences for vulnerable communities that rely on public transport or cannot travel long distances to access cheaper goods.
- What are the proposed regulatory changes needed to ensure that supermarkets prioritize consumer choice over short-term profits, and how will these be enforced across the UK?