Tesco stores are set to see shortages of pet food brands including Whiskas, Dreamies and Pedigree as the Big 4 grocer begins its latest dispute over product pricing.
Mars Petcare products have been running low both online and in-stores and suppliers have been increasing their prices to lessen the impact on production costs, worsened by increasing inflation which reached 5.6% in June.
The news follows Tesco’s price dispute last week where shoppers saw shelves stripped of Heinz products as the FMCG giant paused its product supply to the retailer.
The latest supply row has seen Tesco remain firm on its current stance, as the retailer says it will “not pass on unjustifiable price increases to customers,” in its efforts to keep prices as low as possible.
The cost-of-living crisis has seen 76% of UK consumers admit to being concerned about the impact of inflation on their household budgets, according to the latest GlobalData figures.
As a result, 56% of Britons are buying fewer groceries, a BBC survey revealed.
READ MORE: Tesco vs Heinz: Price rises, product shortages and empty shelves
“We’re laser-focused on keeping the cost of the weekly shop in check, offering customers great value through our combination of Aldi Price Match, Low Everyday Prices and Clubcard Prices,” a Tesco spokesperson said.
“With household budgets under increasing pressure, now more than ever we have a responsibility to ensure customers get the best possible value, and we will not pass on unjustifiable price increases to our customers.”
“We’re sorry that this means some products aren’t available right now, but we have plenty of alternatives to choose from and we hope to have this issue resolved soon.”
Supplier to Whiskas, Dreamies and Pedigree, Mars Petcare’s spokesperson said: “We are aware that some of our Petcare products are currently out of stock at Tesco stores.”
“We want to reassure pet owners that their favourite products are in supply and remain widely available in the UK marketplace.”
“We cannot comment on individual commercial relationships or situations.”
