Sanitarium New Zealand general manager Michael Barton today said demand from all markets, including those in the Pacific and Asia markets, had risen in recent years, outstripping supply.
“We have tried in that time to prioritise allocation of Weet-Bix to service all our customers, including New Zealand’s grocery, non-grocery, hospitality and export markets”.
Barton confirmed Sanitarium had received a letter of inquiry about the situation from the Commerce Commission.
“Our view is clear that no breach of the Commerce Act has occurred. The industry process of stock allocation when supply is constrained is complex.”
Barton said The Warehouse a few weeks ago accepted Sanitarium’s offer of other “value price breakfast cereals” for its customers.
“It’s important to note that manufacturers, like Sanitarium, do not set retail prices. Retailers compete aggressively and Sanitarium have observed very competitive prices from all retailers across the market,” Barton said.
The Commerce Commission yesterday evening told the Herald it was very concerned, and sent a letter to Sanitarium seeking further information.
“Once we have received all requested information, a decision will be made as to next steps including whether to open an investigation,” a commission spokesperson added.
