The supply of groceries is to be reviewed by the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority, in the latest in a series of market studies.
Terms of Reference have been published, together with an information sheet, that outline the purpose, and approach to the study: to consider how the market operates and to understand if there are features of the market that might impact competition. The study will also take into consideration previous studies of the market that the Authority has undertaken.
A market study is a flexible tool to explore whether a market, or feature of a market, is working well for Jersey consumers. It is important to note that a market study is on the structure and behaviour of the market itself, not the action of any specific business or firm.
Peter Hetherington (pictured), Senior Case Officer said, “Groceries represent a significant proportion of weekly household expenditure; it is a sizeable market of considerable economic value to islanders so it is appropriate we take a closer look at it to consider if it is working well for consumers. The Authority last reviewed the market in 2014. This study is being launched in the context of the continuing public debate on ‘cost of living.’
Formal work on the study will start in January 2023 and completion is expected by the end of the year.
Recent Market Studies conducted by the Authority have included Jersey’s Freight Logistics market, Telecoms Retail Pricing and Alcohol Pricing and Promotions.
