Supermarkets prepare for new legislation

New laws that restrict the promotion of products that contain high levels of fat, salt and sugar are set to come in to force on 1st October.

Under the new legislation supermarkets will no longer be allowed to feature these products close to the store entrance or checkouts.

The new rules have been drawn up to promote healthy eating and combat obesity. The bans the promotion of less healthy products in key locations, such as checkouts, store entrances, aisle ends and their online equivalents.

Addressing obesity remains a priority for the government, and will reduce the strain put on the NHS as it works to tackle the COVID-19 backlogs.

Further rules banning multibuy deals on foods and drinks high in fat, salt, or sugar (HFSS) – including buy one get one free (BOGOF), '3 for 2' and restrictions on free refills for soft drinks – will come in to force in October next year (2023).

Sainsbury's superstore in Hartham Lane have relocated their sandwiches and snacking from the entrance to the back wall, whilst the promotion of alcohol has also been removed. The Lindt pick & mix offering has also been downgraded and moved to the confectionary aisle. The company are also making a number of other in-store changes, including the addition of concessions in the former cafe area and lengthening some aisles.