Events

The focus:
Policy priorities for improving the integrity and regulation of the UK food supply chain - as well as the role of the Groceries Code Adjudicator, and priorities for improving best practice.
 
To note:
• Includes discussion on policy priorities for improving the integrity and regulation of the UK food supply chain; and
• Keynote addresses from Michael Walker, Subject Matter Expert, DH/Defra Elliott Review, Jenny Morris, Head, Institute of Food Safety, Integrity and Protection, and Steve Wearne, Director of Policy, Food Standards Agency.
 
Context:
• First formal investigation into Tesco supplier relations by the GCA looking into issues surrounding payments for shelf position and incorrect gate fees;
• Government acceptance of the Groceries Code Adjudicator’s recommendations on powers to fine supermarkets up to 1% of annual UK turnover for breaching the Groceries Supply Code;
• Recently released final report of Elliott review into the integrity and assurance of food supply networks outlining priorities for improving the safety of the UK food supply chain and the Government’s response; and
• Recent commitment by the European Commission to tackle issues of supply chain profit taking.
 
Key discussion points:
• Future priorities for the GCA in improving the relationship between retailers and suppliers including guidance on ‘de-listing’ products;
• The impact of the GCA’s new powers;
• Priorities for the GCA in raising awareness of the Groceries Code and the role of the adjudicator in investigating code breaches moving in the second year of her office;
• The role of regulation and intelligence-gathering in protecting supply chain integrity and priorities for reducing the impact of food fraud;
• Progress on implementing the recommendations of the Elliott review, such as the creation of a food crime unit; and
• Further measures needed to improve the coordination of EU Member States in tackling unfair trading practices.

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