Northern Irish politicians are calling on Asda not to start a price war in the region.
A delegation from the Democratic Unionist Party met with Asda leaders and expressed concern that the retailer’s entrance into the Northern Ireland retail market could result in job losses for local food processing companies.
Asda entered the market in October, and now has 13 stores in the region.
The DUP delegation met with Chris Brown, agriculture strategy manager, Paul Farrell, local supply manager and Michele Lewis, public relations.
Following the meeting, Jim Allister MEP, said: "When Asda entered Northern Ireland it pledged to bring 'every day lowest prices' to Northern Ireland consumers. I have concern that their arrival will result in forcing many of our food processing companies out of business and result in even lower returns being paid to farmers within Northern Ireland.
"The UK major multiples have a responsibility not just to their share holders but also to the companies supplying them with goods and the primary processing sector."
During the meeting, the DUP delegation discussed Asda’s future plans for expansion within Northern Ireland and the OFT investigation into the UK retail market.
