NFU member Ben Hutchins, of Lye Cross Farm, took the honour of being the 1,000th trainee.
Members supplying directly to retailers must protect themselves from unfair trading practices, and that’s why the NFU have teamed up with the British Brands Group to offer the opportunity to learn more about the way the Groceries Supply Code of Practise works.
NFU members learned more about how the code and its adjudicator, Christine Tacon, can help when suppliers face delays in payments, charges for customer complaints or the differences between a request and a requirement from retailers.
Ms Tacon said: “I congratulate the British Brands Group on reaching this significant milestone. I have been urging direct suppliers to get trained in the code to strengthen themselves in negotiations with buyers, who, by law have to be trained annually.
“Good practical training gives suppliers detailed knowledge of the code and the positions I have taken on areas such as delays in payments. Armed with this information they have a greater ability to push back when they are being asked for something that is potentially against the code. Meeting other suppliers on courses is also another way to build confidence.”
Suppliers need to be sure they are given full confidentially if they have filed a complaint to the GCA. The British Brands Group training, for NFU members, reassures these concerns.
A great example of this is her investigation into Tesco’s which concluded earlier in 2016. Christine came across a range of issues, which she was able to report on and make recommendations in a powerful way, without a single supplier’s identify or confidentiality being compromised.
Christine McDowell, NFU food chain adviser said: “If you want the GCA to continue to regulate retailer behaviours, suppliers have got to understand the code and highlight concerns with the GCA herself, or through bodies such as the NFU, who will raise the issue on your behalf.
“To me, understanding the code is a fundamental tool you have to in your back pocket, on your day to day dealings with the UK retailers. It’s a huge help when a retailer is pushing for something that you believe is unfair, or against the code. Training gives you the ability to react in a manner which will aid your negotiation power.”
An NFU South East member, who attended the course, said: “It was very enlightening and even a little bit empowering. I’ve certainly learned quite a few things today.”
He added that understanding GSCOP and the role of the GCA will help him in his business.
“I work for a very small supplier and just to be aware of your rights, will stop me sitting in the background, I can stand my ground a bit more if needed, if I know the rules.”
Christine Tacon has in the past highlighted that those who are trained are much more sensible in approaching and dealing with any breaches as they know their rights.
The NFU Top Tips:
- Read your contract. Know what you have signed up to, even retrospectively!
- Know your Code Compliance Officers. There is one for every retailer, and they sit independently from the retailer’s buying function. They are there to ensure the retailer is complying with GSCOP, but also can be used to resolved breaches with suppliers.
- Delegate a member of your team to be the ‘expert’ in GSCOP. This will help you manage your business if you think your retailer has breached it.
- Ensure all agreements are in writing – even verbal agreements. Keep them safe.
- Train your sales teams in GSCOP. All the retailer buyers are trained by law, you should be too.
- Know the right questions to ask in negotiations e.g. “what are your terms for promotions?”
The NFU has a great offer with the British Brands Group where members can save up to 70% on course fees. If you would like to attend, and are an NFU member, please get in touch with Rm9vZENoYWluRm9jdXNAbmZ1Lm9yZy51aw==