Australia: ACCC Boss Comes Underfire Over Petrol Rebate
|
|
|
|
Friday, 17 July 2009 |
|
Mr Samuel, the boss of the Australian Competition and Consumer
Commission (ACCC) has missed the point, according to the Victorian
Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC).
The ACCC boss responded to the concerns of the state's independent petrol station operators by suggesting they match the 40 cents a litre discount being offered by Coles and Woolworths. The VACC said the hefty rebate and Mr Samuel's attitude could hasten the demise of small, independent operators.
"It is small Independent Service Station owners that are at risk from this manipulative 40 cpL docket discount," said VACC Executive Director David Purchase. "Big supermarkets running big fuel outlets can discount heavily because they have the wherewithal to do so. But small Independent Service Station and Convenience Store owners simply cannot. Contrary to Mr Samuel's comments, it is impossible for small Independent fuel retailers to 'match' this level of discounting and remain in business."
The VACC questioned the motives and timing of the discount, suggesting Mr Samuel should consider the impact on the future of fuel retailing in Australia with two dominant supermarkets being prepared to sell fuel at below cost.
PetrolWorld 160709
|
