South African retailer Pick n Pay has criticised some of its largest suppliers over the rising price of food.
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A spokesperson for the South African retailer confirmed to just-food that CEO Nick Badminton sent a letter to suppliers asking them to exercise “serious restraint” when considering price hikes.
According to Badminton, Pick n Pay is being asked to push through “considerable” price increases by its suppliers.
However, the company said that a reduction in fuel prices meant there was an “expectation from consumers, government spokespeople and the media that grocery prices would therefore come down”.
“The wrath of consumers and members of the general public is being directed at retail and, given Pick n Pay’s profile, particularly, we believe, at us. We do not believe this to be fair, given that our gross margin has not only stayed the same, but actually dropped,” Badminton said.
