The Australian Association of Convenience Stores (AACS) is working with the ACCC to ensure reputable retail brands aren’t ‘named and shamed’ in price gouging claims of RATs.
Theo Foukkare, CEO of the AACS, which has over 6500 retail and supplier members and represents major convenience retail brands, said he fully condemns any retail outlet price gouging on the sale of RATs, but wants to ensure that reputable retailers aren’t tarnished with the same brush as those doing the wrong thing.
“There has been a lot of misinformation being reported and then corrected in the public arena and we would not want this to negatively impact on our reputable retail brands in the convenience and service station sector.”
Foukkare said that convenience and petrol stores across the nation have played a critical role within the community since the pandemic began and will continue to facilitate in keeping communities safe, whilst providing them with essential goods and services through these difficult times.
“Our members are working around the clock to secure RATs direct from suppliers for their communities. However, in some instances they have had to buy product through 2nd and 3rd hand distributors to ensure consumer availability is maintained.”
Foukkare explained that AACS and its members will continue working with suppliers, the government, and the ACCC to ensure RATs are available and priced appropriately to support public health and economic objectives.