The British Retail Consortium has hit out at a report published today that claims supermarkets are offering more discounts on fatty and sugary foods than fruit and vegetables.

The report, by the National Consumer Council, based its findings on one English city last March, which the BRC says ignores the fact that promotions rebalanced over a year. Fruit and vegetables are often promoted more in the spring and summer when supply is higher.

It says the report is also particularly misleading because the figures were collated in Easter, but compared with figures collected in July in 2006.

BRC food director Andrew Opie said: “Of course treat foods are on offer in Easter. What matters is the balance of promotions across the year.”

However, he added: “This report rightly recognises the huge numbers of discounts and promotions retailers are offering cash-strapped customers.”

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