Tesco now also at loggerheads with Mars

Tesco continues to defend its low prices tooth and nail. After Kraft Heinz stopped deliveries last week, it has now led to a row with Mars. This time the conflict revolves around the pet food brands Whiskas and Pedigree.

Candy bars not concerned

As Tesco refuses to accept the price increases for Whiskas and Pedigree pet food, brand owner Mars has halted deliveries to the retailer. Only the supply of chocolate and confectionery of the FMCG producer will continue as usual. Just like with the dispute with Heinz, Tesco reiterates that as a UK market leader it has “more responsibility than ever to ensure that customers get the best possible value”.

The supermarket chain refuses to “pass on unjustifiable price increases to customers”, it said to Reuters. For the sake of convenience, the chain does not mention that it is not the producer but the retailer who sets the selling prices. Tesco does say that it hopes to resolve the issue soon. One week on, however, no agreement seems to have been reached with Kraft Heinz. The shelves with baked beans and ketchup of the brand remain empty.