Retailers warn nearly 30% truck fee rise will hit stores

A planned increase of nearly 30% in the mileage charge for freight trucks could raise costs for retailers, particularly those outside the capital, Spar managing director Svanur Valgeirsson told mbl.is.

The charge on trucks used to distribute goods is due to rise at the start of next year. If the increase comes on top of a 40% rise in diesel prices this year, it will have a significant effect, Valgeirsson said.

Retailers have pledged to limit price rises as part of efforts to fight inflation, but no one has promised that higher transport charges will not affect them or that they will not have to bear the cost, he said. Valgeirsson oversees Spar, Krambúðir and 10/11, which operate retail stores across the country.