Waitrose ends row with Warburtons after high-end supermarket refused to sell products over prices dispute
They had found themselves in a bit of a jam following a tense pricing war.
But after spending two years in exile, Warburton crumpets have at last returned to Waitrose's shelves.
The high-end supermarket began selling a selection of Warburtons products including crumpets and gluten-free loaves and rolls in recent weeks in a sign of renewed partnership between the two behemoth businesses.
It signals a restoration in relations after Waitrose stopped selling Warburton products in 2022 following a commercial dispute over the prices of goods.
Warburtons's row with Waitrose was one of a number of disputes during the cost-of-living crisis between food companies and retailers due to surging material and labour expenditure.
This prompted many manufacturers to push for higher prices in stores which was resisted by some supermarkets who worried this would deter shoppers.
The brand's much-welcomed return follows a change in leadership at Waitrose's parent company, the John Lewis Partnership, in September - which saw Chairman Jason Tarry replace Dame Sharon White.
After spending two years in exile, Warburton crumpets have at last returned to Waitrose 's shelves. Pictured: File photo
It signals a restoration in relations after Waitrose stopped selling Warburton products in 2022 following a commercial dispute over the prices of goods. Pictured: File photo
Commenting on the reunited partnership, Jonathan Warburton, the chairman of Warburtons, said he was 'chuffed to bits' that Warburtons was being restocked at the grocery store.
He said: 'It's been something that we've been quietly working away with Waitrose on for some time.
'We obviously thought [removing the products] was a mistake, but we're chuffed to bits to be back in and they've been very supportive.'
Meanwhile a Waitrose spokesperson added: 'We're very pleased to toast the return of Warburtons crumpets and we know that our customers wholeheartedly welcome the fact that they're back.'
