Groceries Code Adjudicator Mark White has called for suppliers to come forward for his 2026 survey, promising he “will act” on its findings.
The Adjudicator last year announced his first investigation since taking on the role, with a probe ongoing into the treatment of suppliers by online giant Amazon.
The new survey is open until 22 February. The Adjudicator said it was a chance for suppliers to help the GCA understand retailers’ behaviour and take action to ensure they are complying with GSCOP.
Last year the number of suppliers reporting a Code issue fell to 30% from 33% in 2024, while average Code compliance across the retailers rose. For the first time, over 90% of suppliers to 13 retailers reported that the retailer consistently or mostly complied with the Code. There were also improvements in issues prioritised by the GCA, including delays in payments and the resolution of invoice discrepancies.
However, as well as the investigation into Amazon, the GCA survey revealed poor supermarket forecasting behaviour had become “more entrenched” despite the growth of new supplier portals.
“The annual survey is your chance to tell me in confidence how the retailers are behaving. I want to hear from you,” said White.
“I will act on the issues that you raise, making sure the retailers take action where necessary to treat their suppliers fairly and lawfully.”
The GCA will publish the results in spring 2026.
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