Supermarket split policy debate

The story so far

The National Party has proposed structurally separating the Foodstuffs cooperative, which would split Pak'nSave from New World and Four Square.^{1 Oct} Finance Minister Nicola Willis defended the plan after Foodstuffs criticised it, and a Christchurch supermarket owner warned that a split could raise costs, while a local supplier said more competition would lower prices. Foodstuffs released a review by Houston Kemp, which it commissioned, arguing the split would bring industry-wide losses over 20 years.^{1 Oct} ACT leader David Seymour warned against supermarket interventions, claiming politicians were panicking over cost of living and risking investor confidence, and proposed a 'one-stop shop' for consenting new supermarkets.^{28 Sep} Former Prime Minister Sir John Key expressed uncertainty about the split, but current National leaders dismissed his comments.^{28 Sep}

Latest

David Seymour worked a shift at a St Heliers Four Square as ACT increased its criticism of the National proposal.^{2 Oct} ACT is also reported to be receiving more donations during the election campaign.^{2 Oct}

Key moments

1. 28 SepSeymour warns against supermarket interventions and proposes a one-stop shop.
2. 28 SepSir John Key questions the split; National leaders dismiss his comments.
3. 1 OctFoodstuffs releases review disputing benefits, warning of 20-year industry losses.
4. 2 OctSeymour works shift at St Heliers Four Square as ACT ramps up criticism.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.