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Coles accused of ‘utterly misleading’ discounts as major court case kicks off
The ACCC alleges Coles artificially raised prices on 245 products before discounting them, misleading consumers about genuine savings during a high-inflation period, with penalties sought.
- On February 16, 2026 the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission began a Federal Court case alleging Coles misled customers with its Down Down campaign on 245 products.
- ACCC alleges Coles briefly spiked prices to an establishing price then offered a Down Down discount, while Coles says supplier cost increases and mid-2021 to 2023 inflation forced retail price rises.
- Court documents included price histories for Shapes biscuits and Karicare baby formula, while Garry Rich SC opened with Nature's Gift 1.2kg wet dog food showing $4, a $6 spike for seven days, then a $4.50 Down Down sale.
- If proven, the ACCC seeks declarations and financial penalties against Coles, citing tens of millions of allegedly discounted goods that affected millions of consumers and hundreds of stores nationwide.
- Woolworths also faces related allegations and a separate case is scheduled later this year, while internal Coles emails and Down Down TV ads were submitted as evidence on Monday.
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Total News Sources45
Leaning Left11Leaning Right6Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution55% Left
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- 55% of the sources lean Left
55% Left
L 55%
15%
R 30%
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