The British Brands Group has published its latest annual review of designated retailers’ published GSCOP compliance reports.
The retailers are required to give an overview of alleged or actual breaches and disputes. While there is no obligation to report on the number of instances in each of these three categories, the British Brands Group said it was “regrettable and disappointing” that none of the twelve designated retailers chose to do so. It singled out Morrisons’ summary for not giving any quantified information on the number of breaches or disputes experienced during the year.
Tesco had the highest level of alleged breaches (45), mostly related to de-listings, followed by Asda (29). The reports indicated that most of the instances of potential breaches are resolved within the year in which concerns were raised.
The British Brands Group highlighted that in the case of disputes, four retailers are reticent to report on these, despite it being a reporting requirement.
The organisation dedicated to championing brands in the UK said: “It is clear that the outgoing GCA has spoken to designated retailers on their reporting. We see more information from most retailers on alleged breaches and a number are being quite specific on the steps, and the investment, they are making to ensure they are compliant.
“We therefore see continuing improvement in terms of detail in these reports, and consequently their value.”
Download the full British Brands Group’s GSCOP reports review (PDF)
