Every week, Canadians use grocery flyers, apps and online promotions to find deals. But Canadians would be surprised to learn that stores aren't always allowed to advertise their lowest prices.
The Competition Bureau has launched an investigation into the use of minimum advertised pricing policies in the grocery sector. These policies, which can be imposed by suppliers or negotiated between suppliers and retailers, set the lowest price at which a retailer can advertise a product. In industries like retail grocery, where a few large companies dominate the retail landscape, these policies can make it harder for retailers, including discount grocers, to offer lower prices and compete for customers.
The Competition Bureau is concerned that these policies are restricting competition, and keeping lower prices out of reach for Canadians. The Bureau wants to hear from consumers, retailers, suppliers and others with experience with these policies about how they impact grocery pricing.
The input we receive will support our investigation in the sector, as well as informing our examination of competition across Canada's food supply chain.
