15-05-2008
FSB criticises OFT over supermarket domination
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The UK's Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has come out against recent comments made by the Office of Fair Trading's (OFT) chief executive, John Fingleton.
Simon Briault, a representative for the FSB has criticised comments made by Mr Fingleton, stating that 2,000 small shops close every year partially as a consequence of his own failings and the failings of the OFT.
Mr Fingleton had blamed consumers for the closure of small stores across the UK, stating that although consumers wanted small stores to remain open, this sentiment contrasted with an unwillingness to purchase produce from such locations.
"There isn't a level playing field when it comes to grocery retailing, and the OFT and the Competition Commission have failed to ensure that there is one," said Mr Briault.
"With their third inquiry in eight years, they didn't do a good enough job."