Sainsbury CEO calls for government energy support
Simon Roberts says the food industry needs assistance to manage high energy bills and curb grocery inflation. The sector faces pressure following recent events.
SAINSBURY (J) PLC CEO Simon Roberts requested United Kingdom government intervention Thursday to offset energy costs and curb grocery inflation. The appeal follows a surge in prices after United States and Israel military actions against Iran began in February. UK Finance Minister Rachel Reeves has said her focus during the war is keeping costs down for consumers and businesses.
### Why the Food Sector Seeks Energy Relief Roberts argued that the entire supply chain—from farmers to retailers—requires state support similar to that provided to other energy-intensive industries. Sainsbury's holds a 15.6% share of the British grocery market, trailing only Tesco. The CEO stated that stabilizing energy bills is the primary lever for preventing further price hikes at the checkout.
