ACCC sides with Queensland showgoers
Anti-competition question mark over Queensland trade show 'loyalty program'Consumer watchdog ACCC is seeking to quash plans by Caravanning Queensland to offer a deal to its members that would prevent them from taking part in caravan shows other than those organised by the state industry association.
The ACCC says Caravanning Queensland wants to offer a ‘loyalty program’ to its members, which would include an offer of discounted fees to exhibit at its own caravanning trade shows on the condition that members do not take part in competing events.
The ACCC said it "intends to revoke an exclusive dealing notification lodged by Caravanning Queensland about the ‘loyalty program’ because it raises serious competition concerns".
“We disagree with Caravanning Queensland’s claim that this is simply a loyalty program for its members,” ACCC Commissioner Stephen Ridgeway said.
“Loyalty programs should reward members for purchasing more of your products or services, rather than linking the reward to an agreement not to purchase your competitors’ products or services.”
The ACCC says Caravanning Queensland has a substantial membership base comprising more than 85 per cent of caravan manufacturers, and runs four major caravan shows annually in Brisbane, Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, including the popular Queensland Supershow at the RNA Showgrounds which normally runs in June but was cancelled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As a result, smaller caravanning event organisers or possible new entrants are unlikely to be able to match the deep discounts to persuade members to give up their Caravanning Queensland discount,” Ridgeway said.
“Additionally, consumers are likely to have fewer opportunities, or have to travel much further, to attend caravanning exhibition events where they can easily compare features and prices of a broad range of recreational vehicles, and track down special deals."
Caravanning Queensland and interested parties can comment on the draft notice before the ACCC makes a final decision. Submissions are due by 10 July 2020.
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