07/07/2008

Tesco Vegetable Oil Ban Extended

A suermarket's ban on vegetable oil bulk-buying is being extended right across Ireland.

The ban, which was introduced by the supermarket and petrol supplier Tesco last year, will now even stretch to two small Waterford towns.

Tesco has claimed these two areas should not be exempt.

As petrol prices continue to soar, on both sides of the border, more consumers are resorting to topping-up their tanks with vegetable oil, leading to increased bulk buys.

Tesco's latest move means Lisduggan and Ardkeen shoppers will now be limited to buying nine litres of vegetable oil at a time.

One litre of vegetable oil in Tesco will set them back around €1, compared with €1.30 for a litre of petrol at the pumps outside.

Consumer groups have blasted the ban, which them say infringe consumer choice and their freedom to purchase what they wish.

Consumers Association of Ireland's Head, Dermot Jewell, said: "We strongly oppose this move by Tesco. By limiting the number of items a customer can buy, Tesco are indirectly introducing price control, which is banned in Ireland."

Tesco has defended its decision, claiming a ban on bulk purchases ensures that all customers get equal access to offers.

(PR)

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