Following confirmation this week that government plans to ban multi-buy deals on unhealthy food & drink have been suspended for another two years, Tesco has reaffirmed its commitment not to sell HFSS products through volume-led promotions.
In October last year, the placement of high fat, salt or sugar (HFSS) products in areas like checkouts, end-of-aisle units, store entrances, and designated queueing areas was banned in England as part of moves to tackle rising obesity levels in the UK.
However, planned restrictions on multi-buy offers such as BOGOFs were delayed until October this year amid concerns about its impact on consumers struggling with the rising cost of living. Despite the delay in the official legislation, both Tesco and Sainsbury’s committed to implementing the promotion restrictions from 1 October 2022.
Following criticism of the policy in recent weeks, the government said last weekend that the delay has now been extended until October 2025 as it continues to review the impact the move would have on consumers and businesses.
In a statement yesterday, Tesco said it would continue to keep volume-led promotions on HFSS products off its shelves as part of its commitment to make it easier for its customers to shop for healthier food.
The Group Chief Product Officer, Ashwin Prasad, commented: “Tesco will continue to offer great value on products across the entire store, so customers won’t have to purchase more food than they need to access great value.
“Our mission is to make Tesco the easiest place to shop for a healthy, more sustainable basket – while keeping the cost of the weekly shop in check. We know that customers want to eat a more healthy, sustainable diet, but without having to stretch the weekly shopping budget, and we are really proud to be leading the way in maintaining our commitment.”
NAM Implications:
- This decision may place Tesco at a slight disadvantage to rivals.
- But the resulting PR kudos could compensate.
- One to watch…
