The Competition Commission has decided to have a supermarket sweep affecting Northern Ireland based traders, their spokesman Rory Taylor indicated that exclusivity agreements that were acceptable when an outlet was first opened are not 'justifiable' on a 'forever' basis. As such a five year limit has been imposed to end the 'uncompetitive' agreements with landowners, which prevent rivals from setting up business nearby.

The Competition Commission proposed changes to planning legislation back in 2008, following a two-year investigation and subsequent government consultation, which resulted in legislation now due to come into effect next April.

The ruling by the Competition Commission affect some Asda, Tesco and Sainbury's stores but do not require the stores to sell land or stores, the eight affected sites are:

Asda Downpatrick (J and H Miskelly)
Sainsbury's Newry (Parker Green)
Sainsbury's Ballymena (Sam Morrison)
Sainsbury's Armagh (Drumragh Property Investments)
Tesco Portadown (Turret Investments)
Tesco Newtownabbey (Abbey Retail Park Limited)
Tesco Limavady (Sean Mullan and Son)
Tesco Cookstown (Norman Menary)

Last Updated: 18th August 2010