Foodstuffs welcomes VISA back down

Foodstuffs welcomes VISA back down

Foodstuffs says VISA’s back down over its planned hike in commission fees is not surprising, but warns shoppers the issue not over yet.

Foodstuffs (New Zealand) Ltd Managing Director Tony Carter says VISA’s announcement that it is postponing a 1 July implementation date to 1 October 2003 so that it can consider its options was sensible.

“We have had terrific support from our customers for our stance over the past few days.

“This has reinforced our view that grocery shoppers shouldn’t have to wear fee hikes from financial organisations and the most obvious solution would be to stop accepting VISA in our stores if VISA ultimately decides to go ahead with the increase.

“The only other alternative would be to put up grocery prices to cover the increase and we don’t think this option is acceptable. It’s not fair on shoppers, particularly those who don’t use credit cards in supermarkets.

“While an increase in grocery prices would be relatively small, it’s the principle of the matter. We have to draw a line in the sand and say any increase in food prices because of commission hikes is unacceptable for our customers.

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