IBEC criticises fresh calls for lifting of Groceries Order

The employers' body IBEC has expressed its opposition to renewed calls for the lifting of the ban on below-cost selling.

The ban was introduced as part of the 1987 Groceries Order to prevent large supermarkets from undercutting small retailers and putting them out of business.

Reports this morning said the Government's Consumer Strategy Group had recommended that the ban be lifted as it was no longer needed, claiming this would benefit consumers.

However, IBEC, which is one of the most vocal proponents of increased competition, claimed consumers would actually suffer if the ban was lifted.

It said Ireland basically had a choice between having a vibrant groceries market with plenty of competing retailers or a market "like the UK, where 42% of villages have no local shop".