Grocery Code of Conduct

Growers had the opportunity to hear directly from the Commerce Commission Grocery Team about their rights under the new Grocery Code of Conduct at a webinar hosted by HortNZ. Click here to view the slides from the webinar, they contain important information about the Code.

The Grocery Team answered anonymous questions and heard feedback on a range of topics, from issues with accessing crates to whether setoffs will be allowed under the new scheme.

Key takeaways:

• Suppliers should get legal advice about whether their new supply agreement is compliant with the Code of Conduct before signing
• Suppliers should know that they do not have to contract out any of their rights under the Code unless it is for their own benefit.  

The Grocery Team indicated that they heard loud and clear that most growers sell to wholesalers or other intermediaries and don’t have direct contracts with the regulated retailers (Woolworths and Foodstuffs North and South Island), meaning that they are not protected by the Code. They are taking this into consideration for when a review of how the Code of Conduct is working for the sector is undertaken. 

The Grocery Team wants to know what aspects of the domestic market are causing problems for fruit and vegetable growers. Any information about the mechanics of the sector or specific problems can be helpful in their work to improve conditions for suppliers. Feedback can be provided to HortNZ (who can anonymise it), email feedback to Emily.levenson@hortnz.co.nz.

Growers can also contact the Grocery Team directly without a guarantee of anonymity by completing the online form on the Commission website here, calling them on 0800 943 600, or emailing contact@comcom.govt.nz. To stay 100% anonymous, growers are best to use the Commerce Commission anonymous reporting tool here.