Supermarkets face fines for unfair practice under new regulator Ms Swinson said: "Where supermarkets are breaking the rules with suppliers and treating them unfairly, the adjudicator will make sure that they are held to account. We have heard the views of the stakeholders who were keen to give the adjudicator a power to fine, and recognise that this change would give the adjudicator more teeth to enforce the Groceries Code. The new adjudicator is expected to publish guidelines on its approach to sanctions within six months of the new Bill coming into effect, expected some time next year. As well as fining companies the adjudicator will be able to arbitrate disputes between retailers and suppliers and investigate confidential complaints from direct and indirect suppliers. Ms Swinson said: "The food industry plays an important role in economic growth, and the Groceries Code Adjudicator will help to ensure that the market is operating in a fair and healthy way. Large supermarkets form a big chunk of this industry, and generally provide consumers with low prices and variety whilst providing business for farmers and suppliers.