It’s easy for Aussie consumers to vote with their feet when it comes to grocery shopping. If you don’t like the prices or service at your usual supermarket, head to another.
But it’s not that easy for suppliers. Major supermarkets are routinely ranked based on their treatment of suppliers, but for the first time, these rankings have been made public.
ALDI is the top choice among suppliers, according to Grocery Code of Conduct independent reviewer Chris Leptos.
The suppliers were asked to rate the supermarkets on four aspects: fair and reasonable dealings, clear and prompt communication, dealing in good faith, and taking prompt, constructive action to resolve issues raised.
ALDI scored highest in all categories, followed by Metcash, with Coles and Woolworths trailing behind in third and fourth place, respectively.
“By publishing the rankings, I am hopeful that it will be used to stimulate a competitive ‘race to the top’,” Mr Leptos said.
He added that while he hadn’t receive any requests to review a complaint to the code arbiters in the 2022-23 reporting period, he did receive direct approaches from suppliers who were reluctant to formalise a complaint.
A Queensland grower, who wished to remain anonymous, explained: “The problem is if you were to make a complaint and you then lost your contract, then your business is compromised. If you lose the ability to trade with either Coles or Woolworths, then your business is not viable because of your economy of scale.”
Were you aware of the sensitivities between suppliers and supermarkets?
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