The Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA) has published its annual report for the 2025/26 financial year, revealing that while inflationary pressures impacted the sector, compliance with the Groceries Code remained largely high among the 14 major retailers. The report details the GCA's efforts to ensure fair practices within the supply chain, even as a slight increase in suppliers reporting issues was noted.
During the period covered by the report, the GCA maintained a proportionate regulatory approach, utilising its statutory powers where necessary. This included initiating a targeted investigation into Amazon.com, Inc. concerning a potential breach of paragraph 5 of the Code. Furthermore, the GCA took proactive steps to enable suppliers to confidentially raise concerns about Code issues without fear of adverse consequences, fostering a more secure environment for reporting.
In his foreword, the Adjudicator outlined key priorities for the current 2026/27 year. A primary objective is to reverse the decline in perceived Code compliance, as indicated by the latest supplier survey, and to reduce the frequency of the most commonly reported Code issues. Specific areas of focus will include delays in payment, forecasting accuracy, marketing costs, and de-listing practices. These issues can have significant financial implications for suppliers, ultimately affecting the variety and cost of goods available to consumers.
The Adjudicator plans to pursue these priorities through direct engagement with Chief Commercial Officers and senior leadership at retailers, closely monitoring their actions and assurance arrangements. Continuous dialogue with suppliers will also be central to understanding and addressing ongoing challenges. The annual survey will continue to serve as a vital tool for assessing progress and holding the sector accountable for its adherence to the Code.
The report also highlighted the GCA's commitment to building confidence in its regulatory approach, actively encouraging suppliers to come forward with any concerns. An anonymous 24/7 reporting platform, 'Tell the GCA', is available on the GCA website, providing an accessible channel for suppliers to report issues confidentially. This ongoing oversight of the grocery supply chain is crucial for maintaining fair competition and ensuring a stable and diverse market for consumers.