Competition Commission will not be sidetracked
The Competition Commission (CC) has vowed its investigation into the grocery market will not be sidetracked.

In an issues statement released today, CC chairman Peter Freeman said: 'We know that there are many issues of more general public concern surrounding the grocery market. We will listen to evidence on these, but our concern must be their impact on competition; we hope those who provide evidence will focus on that.'

The commission also said it was sensitive to the 'burden and uncertainty caused by an inquiry like this' and would carry out the investigation 'quickly, as well as comprehensively'. It aims to publish its final report by October next year.

The CC investigation will focus on the supply chain, retail competition in local markets and the planning regime for new supermarket construction. It will be headed by CC chairman Peter Freeman.

Last month, following a consultation period, the Office of Fair Trading decided there were enough competition concerns in the sector to warrant a full inquiry. More than 1,200 responses from the public were received during the consultation, most supporting a referral to the Commission.

The Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), which lobbied for the inquiry, welcomed the CC's statement today. ACS director of public affairs James Lowman said: 'This is exactly the sort of inclusive and thorough review that we have been asking for. The commission is looking at the market from top to bottom.'