Ditch greedflation

One of the more depressing aspects of the financial downturn has been the rise of ‘greedflation’ – successful firms using the cost of living squeeze as an excuse to ramp up prices.

so it was disappointing this week when two great British business institutions, Unilever and reckitt, announced significant price increases to offset soaring inflation.

the Mail wouldn’t dream of telling these two consumer giants how to run their businesses. We understand the responsibility companies have to their shareholders in maintaining a healthy balance sheet.

But when millions are struggling with their weekly shop, might it be also sound practice for them to swallow some of the costs themselves rather than simply pass them on to customers?

Both firms make vast profits. It’s not as if they can’t afford it.