Lidl GB has set a new benchmark in its commitment to British food and agriculture, announcing it will invest an impressive £21 billion in the industry by the end of FY24.
The milestone exceeds its original five-year target of £15 billion by a staggering 40%, highlighting the retailer’s unwavering support for local food production.
Backing British Fresh Produce with Big Investments
Fresh produce has been a cornerstone of Lidl’s commitment to British agriculture. The retailer sources two-thirds of its permanent product range from British suppliers, with a growing focus on fruits, vegetables, and root crops that form the backbone of the nation's diet.
In January 2024, Lidl responded to challenging weather conditions by injecting £70 million into the British root vegetable sector. Long-term contracts provided farmers with the certainty they needed to invest in their operations, ensuring a stable supply of potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and other staples for Lidl’s shelves. This funding came at a crucial time, enabling suppliers to mitigate the impacts of climate volatility while maintaining high-quality standards.
Richard Bourns, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl GB, praised the resilience of British farmers:
"As we mark 30 years of Lidl in Great Britain, it’s incredible to reflect on our journey. One of our proudest accomplishments is the robust relationships we’ve built with British suppliers, who’ve grown alongside us.
"Now more than ever, we’re committed to supporting British farmers, ensuring they thrive and continue delivering the home-grown products our customers love. Our investment in British agriculture secures a bright future for our suppliers and sustains our promise to champion quality local produce all year round."
Supporting British Apples, Pears, and Seasonal Favourites
Lidl’s dedication to British produce extends beyond staples. In 2024, the retailer was one of only two supermarkets to increase British apple sales, earning recognition from British Apples and Pears Limited. By strengthening relationships with local orchards, Lidl has ensured a steady supply of fresh, seasonal fruit to meet growing consumer demand.
This focus on seasonal produce allows Lidl to offer customers high-quality, sustainably sourced fruit and vegetables all year round, while helping British farmers thrive in a competitive market.
Pioneering Sustainability in British Agriculture
Lidl’s investments in fresh produce are part of its wider sustainability strategy. The retailer’s initiatives include reducing emissions across farms and funding research into improving farming practices. For root vegetable suppliers, this means Lidl is not only ensuring economic stability but also driving environmental progress.
Awards Reflecting Commitment to Fresh Produce
Lidl’s focus on fresh produce has earned it a string of prestigious accolades in 2024, including being crowned Multiple Retailer of the Year at the FPC Fresh Awards 2024, a testament to its unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality, locally-sourced produce through strong partnerships with British farmers and suppliers.
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