Strengthening the GCA to ensure fairness in supply chain

The statutory review consultation has officially closed, concluding the period for stakeholders to provide formal input.

The NFU’s response recognises the important role the GCA has played in promoting fairness and transparency in the grocery supply chain while identifying challenges that remain. In particular we have highlighted the ongoing vulnerability of primary producers, who often lack direct contracts with retailers and therefore fall outside the GCA’s current scope.

Coordination

We are calling for improved reporting confidence, better coordination with related regulators, and expanded oversight where needed. This includes stronger protections for indirect suppliers, whose relationships with supermarkets are often mediated through processors, packers, or other intermediaries.

Additionally, we want the GCA and ASCA to work together more strategically to address gaps in enforcement and ensure consistent treatment of suppliers across all tiers of the supply chain.

Ensuring fair trading

Through these measures, the NFU believes the GCA can evolve into a more effective guardian of fair-trading practices, supporting a more equitable and resilient future for British agriculture.

 The NFU looks forward to ongoing engagement with the GCA to ensure that British farmers are operating in a fair, transparent, and competitive supply chain.

We are seeking feedback from our national boards and members. We want to hear your insights and about your experience with the GCA, focusing on areas where primary producers face challenges in the supply chain. 

The DBT (Department for Business and Trade) has launched a statutory review of the GCA seeking stakeholder input on the GCA's performance from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2025.

The consultation aims to assess the GCA's effectiveness and consider its future role alongside the ASCA (Agricultural Supply Chain Adjudicator).

Find out more about the review on: GOV.UK | GCA statutory review, 2022 to 2025.