The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission welcomed the Australian Government's directive for a year-long inquiry into the supermarket sector, focusing on pricing practices, competition, and the relationship between wholesale and retail prices, including farmgate prices.
ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb acknowledged the concerns over rising grocery prices and the disconnect between farmgate prices and consumer costs.
The inquiry will utilise legal powers to scrutinise the sector comprehensively, aiming to identify issues and propose recommendations.
The investigation will assess the current competitive environment, barriers to competition, and emerging trends like online shopping and loyalty programs.