‘Going to the dogs!’ Tesco to no longer stock Whiskas and Pedigree pet food amid price row

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The supermarket giant is refusing to "pass on unjustifiable price increases” to customers as suppliers escalate their prices amid soaring inflation. Mars Petcare products, which include pet food favourites Sheba, Cesar dog food and Iams, will also not be available to customers. The latest supply row comes after Heinz ketchup and baked beans were pulled from Tesco's shelves last week as the cost-of-living crisis continues.

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Suppliers are trying to up their prices to offset the impact of soaring cost inflation on their own operations.

The impact of the supply row is already being seen with cans of pet food running low in stores and online today.

Retail analyst Steve Dresser, chief executive of Grocery Insight, shared photos of empty shelves on his Twitter account.

He said on Twitter this evening: "Gaps definitely opening up on shelf, with the labels indicating no stock arriving to store until July 23.

"All on Mars brands – Cesar, Whiskas & Pedigree."

A spokesman for Tesco said: "We’re laser-focused on keeping the cost of the weekly shop in check, offering customers great value through our combination of Aldi Price Match, Low Everyday Prices and Clubcard Prices.

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Supermarket news: Tesco to stop stocking Whiskas and Pedigree pet food after price dispute (Image: GETTY)

"With household budgets under increasing pressure, now more than ever we have a responsibility to ensure customers get the best possible value, and we will not pass on unjustifiable price increases to our customers.

"We’re sorry that this means some products aren’t available right now, but we have plenty of alternatives to choose from and we hope to have this issue resolved soon."

A spokeswoman for Mars said: "We are aware that some of our Petcare products are currently out of stock at Tesco stores.

"We want to reassure pet owners that their favourite products are in supply and remain widely available in the UK marketplace.

"There are many reasons why our products may be out of stock in certain stores from time to time.

"We cannot comment on individual commercial relationships or situations."

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A single 415g can of Beanz in ASDA has risen from 90p to £1.20, according retail researchers Assosia.

A Kraft Heinz spokesman said at the time: "We are working closely with Tesco to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.

"In today's challenging economic environment – with commodity and production costs rising – many consumers are working within tight budgets.

"We always look at how we can provide value through price, size and packs so consumers can enjoy the products they love and trust at a price point that works within their budgets, without compromising on quality. We are confident of a positive resolution with Tesco."

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