The changes introduced by the Grocery Industry Competition Act are designed to make it easier for new or existing retailers to compete with the major supermarkets. A more competitive market will deliver better prices, quality, innovation and choice to satisfy diverse consumer preferences and needs. The new regulatory regime will take time to increase competition in the sector and this change will be sustainable and long-lasting.

Explore your grocery options if you are able to. Through shopping around, you are helping to drive competition, and can benefit from the better pricing, quality and ranges on offer.

New Zealand consumers are also protected by other laws, including the Fair Trading Act. This Act prohibits false and misleading behaviour and a range of other unfair business practices by businesses - including grocery retailers. This might include misleading or incorrect pricing. Read more about pricing on our buying goods and services page.

If you have a concern about the conduct of a grocery retailer or other business, you can contact the Commission. Read more about the how to contact us

Unit pricing

The Unit Pricing Regulations are helping consumers easily compare products based on the price-per-unit and make informed choices about which product offers them the best value.

These regulations came into effect as of 31 August 2023 and require certain grocery retailers to display the unit price for goods clearly and legibly, at no less than 25% the size of the marked price. Not every grocery retailer is required to display a unit price. The Regulations only apply to physical retailers with an internal floor space of over 1,000sqm and online retailers who sell ALL of the following products:

  • bread
  • dairy products
  • eggs or egg products
  • fruit
  • vegetables
  • meat
  • fish
  • rice
  • sugar
  • manufacturer-packaged food

Physical stores that meet the criteria must comply with the Regulations by 31 August 2024 and online stores must comply by 31 August 2025.

Resources for budgeting and help with food costs

The cost-of-living crisis is having an impact on all New Zealanders. The New Zealand Government provides a directory of services for getting help with your budget that can help if you are struggling with food costs.