ACM launches a market investigation into grocery prices in Dutch supermarkets

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) is launching a market investigation into the prices of food products in Dutch supermarkets. The investigation focuses on the price breakdowns of and price formations for products in the average grocery basket of consumers. This market investigation was prompted by reports that the prices of certain food products are higher in the Netherlands than in neighboring countries.

With this market investigation, ACM wishes to gain further insight into the manner in which prices of food products in supermarkets are formed, as well as into the question of whether there are any market problems that lead to higher prices. ACM looks into, among other aspects:

• The profit margins of suppliers of food products (including suppliers of leading-brand items), as well as the profit margins of supermarkets; and possible explanations of high or low margins.
• Price differences between products in Dutch supermarkets and in other countries.

Significance for consumers and businesses

The market investigation examines whether or not the food-product sector works well for consumers as well as where any bottlenecks are. Well-functioning markets are important for both consumers and businesses. If suppliers obstruct supermarkets in purchasing lower-priced products or if there is insufficient competition between supermarkets, it can lead to higher prices. With this market investigation, ACM wishes to provide clarity regarding the question whether such market problems occur in this sector. ACM can make recommendations to the Dutch legislature to reduce or solve any problems. If ACM finds any indications that violations have been committed, it can also take enforcement action.

The results of the market investigation are expected to be published in the summer of 2026.

Market investigation into educational tools (including digital) in 2026

ACM has temporarily paused the previously announced market investigation into educational tools (including digital ones) for reasons of limited capacity. ACM plans to resume this market investigation in January 2026, and to publish the results by the end of 2026. Prior to that publication, a draft version will be published for consultation so that parties involved are able to submit their opinions.