Morrisons has hit back at claims made in the Financial Times this week that it is leaning on suppliers for more support on promotions.

A spokesman for the retailer told freshinfo: “We are strong supporters of British producers and farmers, and we have always enjoyed good relationships with our suppliers. Any recent negotiations have been part of business as usual.”

Suppliers had reportedly told the FT they expected Morrisons to begin negotiations in the next few weeks in order to reach agreement by next year, as competition among the four largest retailers intensifies.

Despite Morrisons’ “business as usual” line, some industry insiders have suggested that increased pressure on suppliers over promotions shows a change brought about by new management under ceo Marc Bolland.

However, one Morrisons supplier told FPJ this week: “We have not heard anything from Morrisons in terms of any specific approach for price reductions, as alluded to in the FT.”

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