Supermarkets are sitting ducks for pro-competition regulation

Supermarkets are sitting ducks for pro-competition regulation
The political incentives are aligning to make an example of uncompetitive supermarkets. (Image: Getty)
Cameron Bagrie
Do not underestimate the incentive for the government to go hard on the supermarkets. Other sectors should be paying attention.This is not just because of industry-related issues such as those highlighted by the Commerce Commission’s report into the retail grocery sector. It is also because building inflationary pressures are not likely to be economically or voter-friendly. Levers to contain inflation should be eyed, and moving quickly on supermarkets is one.Obvious targets There are the obvious reasons for action on superm...

More Retail

Kogan.com takes $51m goodwill hit on Mighty Ape
Retail

Kogan.com takes $51m goodwill hit on Mighty Ape

Kogan.com has written down A$46.3 million (NZ$51.2m) of goodwill tied to its New Zealand segment, Mighty Ape.  The Australian retail and services group filed its earnings for the 12 months to June 30 with the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) on Monday.Chief executive Ruslan K...

Staff reporters 25 Aug 2025
The other buyers’ market: Retail discounting eats margins
Retail

The other buyers’ market: Retail discounting eats margins

Forsyth Barr’s Koraua says rate of margin decline has been surprising. 

Gregor Thompson 25 Aug 2025
Kitchen Things tipped into receivership, 12 stores closed
Retail

Kitchen Things tipped into receivership, 12 stores closed

Efforts to restructure and reduce costs have not been sufficient.

Staff reporters 20 Aug 2025
Baby Bunting's NZ teething over, posts earnings growth
Retail

Baby Bunting's NZ teething over, posts earnings growth

Baby Bunting plans to open its fifth New Zealand store by year-end.

Gregor Thompson 18 Aug 2025