SAINSBURY'S CHIEF CALLS ON BURNHAM TO CUT ENERGY COSTS

Simon Roberts, chief executive of Sainsbury's, has urged the incoming prime minister to reduce energy levies on the food industry. Roberts made the call on Tuesday as the UK prepares for a change of government. He argued that food production businesses face greater cost burdens than other heavy-use industries and that the Treasury should engage with the sector to address rising expenses. Roberts stated the industry has dealt with substantial cost increases following the war in the Middle East.

Roberts said he would welcome government policies supporting consumer confidence and optimism, alongside measures to increase hiring of young people. Official figures suggest youth unemployment in the UK reached its highest level in a decade during February to April 2026, with approximately 735,000 people aged 16 to 24 recorded as out of work. Roberts noted that energy tax rises and national insurance increases have prompted many businesses in retail and hospitality to curtail recruitment. Sainsbury's itself employs 140,000 people and remains committed to youth employment.

On food inflation, Roberts acknowledged ongoing uncertainty about price movements but suggested inflation may fall below the Food and Drink Federation's earlier prediction of at least nine per cent by year end. Roberts stated the industry has faced increasing regulatory costs in recent years and called for renewed focus on growth. The comments come as Sainsbury's reported sales growth of 3.1 per cent.