The merger of two major grocery stores has ignited cost-of-living concerns, according to OBA Leader Jarion Richardson.
Last week’s news that MarketPlace and SuperMart are now one entity was lamented on social media.
However, Mr Richardson told Gary Foster Skelton that consolidations or buyouts aren’t necessarily a bad thing – but Government must try to protect the consumer.
Mr Richardson compares this situation to the BF&M/Argus merger, in terms of creating concern over prices and reduced competition.
“These consolidations, mergers and buyouts are not, quote unquote, bad”, he says. “The question is, what is the role of the authorities, and how will the authorities make sure that the consumers are protected.”
“…we’re not calling for more regulation. What we’re calling for is a proactive approach in the relevant ministry.”
“…just explain to us what’s being undertaken, what’s being considered, and how we’re going to make sure that the ultimate end goal, which is the protection of consumers and keeping prices the way they are in so much as we can within the bounds of law.”
We reached out last week to Government, MarketPlace and Supermart for response to Mr Richardson.
We had not received anything by newstime.
