Regulator can join farmer’s lawsuit against supermarket, judge rules

In a landmark decision on 18 June 2025, a High Court judge ruled that an independent supply chain watchdog, the Groceries Code Adjudicator, should be allowed to contribute evidence to a case brought by a farmer against the supermarket Aldi.

The brassica farm based in Yorkshire brought legal action against the retail giant, following a last-minute cancellation of an order of Brussel sprouts. Having already sown the crop and invested a substantial amount of money in equipment, the farmers faced losing millions of pounds when the order was cancelled.

Under the Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GCSOP), retailers must give reasonable notice when cancelling an order. In this case, the farmers argue, due notice was not given, effectively forcing his business to fold.

The Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA) is the independent watchdog responsible for overseeing retailers’ adherence to the code and fair treatment of suppliers. However, lawyers representing Aldi argued that the GCA should not be permitted to bring evidence to the trial, as this would be “partisan”. 

After four months of dispute, the High Court judge has decided that the GCA should be allowed to submit evidence to the case. This landmark ruling sets a precedent for future legal cases brought by farmers against supermarkets.

The fear of delisting is widespread among farmers. According to a survey by Riverford, only 25% of farmers thought that the big retailers’ claims to “support British farming” were credible. However, 67% of farmers feared being delisted if they complained about unfair practices by supermarkets.

Despite farmers’ concerns about supermarkets, there have been very few investigations of unfairness towards food producers and suppliers. A joint campaign by Sustain and Riverford to reform supply chain regulation has raised awareness of the issue, with 11,000 letters sent to MPs. 

The case for reform has gained political momentum, with MPs from across the political spectrum participating in a recent parliamentary debate on the GCA. MPs argued that change is urgently needed to improve farmers’ livelihoods and ensure they receive a fair return for their produce.

Will White, Sustainable Farming Campaign Coordinator, said,

“We welcome the High Court ruling that the Groceries Code Adjudicator can submit evidence in this landmark case. It’s a vital step toward justice after these potentially abusive practices by Aldi.

But the fact it took three months of legal wrangling just to win the right to present this evidence is quite telling. It highlights the vast power imbalance between retailers and farmers - and the climate of fear many farmers operate under, worried they’ll be de-listed if they speak out.

Without stronger, more comprehensive regulation to properly deter unfair dealing, these kinds of behaviours will continue, squeezing farmers out of business and undermining their ability to invest in nature-friendly practices.”

A review of the effectiveness of the GCA is currently underway – the Department for Business and Trade is inviting suppliers and stakeholders to submit evidence.

Download our briefing on strengthening the GCA and supply chain regulation