Dutch Supermarkets Under Scrutiny for High Prices

The Netherlands' consumer protection watchdog has initiated an investigation into pricing strategies at Dutch supermarkets following reports that groceries cost more here than in neighboring countries. This inquiry comes after Consumentenbond's findings indicated that German supermarkets are generally 15% cheaper.

The Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) will scrutinize profit margins and compare prices between Dutch supermarkets and their foreign counterparts. The investigation will also look into whether market bottlenecks contribute to the elevated grocery prices.

Should suppliers hinder supermarkets from buying cheaper products or if there is insufficient competition, prices may remain high, ACM noted. The regulator may suggest legislative revisions or enforce actions against violations, with the investigation's results expected next summer.