Sarah Garry Oct 8, 2026
BBG asks CMA to review Code coverage and scrutinise retailer buying power
The British Brands Group has written to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), calling for Boots and Farmfoods to be brought within the Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GSCOP). We have also asked to contribute supplier evidence to any future assessment of significant consolidation among major UK grocery retailers.
Our letter highlights the importance of ensuring that competition policy and Code protections keep pace with changes in the retail market, supporting fair treatment for suppliers and continued investment, innovation and consumer choice.
Keeping Code coverage up to date
GSCOP provides important protections against unfair trading practices in relationships between designated grocery retailers and their suppliers. BBG has long supported its effectiveness through our supplier training programme and engagement with the Groceries Code Adjudicator.
We have requested an update on the CMA’s consideration of Boots, following evidence submitted by BBG in 2025 indicating that its annual UK sales in relevant grocery categories had exceeded £1 billion. Members continue to raise concerns about trading practices which, if Boots were designated, would fall within the protections the Code is intended to provide.
We have also asked the CMA to assess Farmfoods, whose reported turnover has exceeded £1 billion for three consecutive years. Crucially, the statutory test concerns annual UK groceries turnover, rather than total company turnover. We are therefore seeking a formal assessment and, if the threshold is met, an indication of the likely timetable for designation.
Consolidation: considering the impact on suppliers
Our letter also raises the potential implications of further consolidation in grocery retail following media reports that discussions had been taking place between two major supermarket chains. Our focus is ensuring suppliers’ negotiating position is maintained and there are continued incentives for suppliers to invest in the UK market.
Members’ experiences will be central to this work. We welcome feedback on dealings with Boots and Farmfoods and on how further retail consolidation could affect your business. Please contact Sarah Garry to discuss your experience confidentially.