UK vegetable producers have been given a boost thanks to a multi-million pound deal between Asda and Fullers Foods International.
The retailer has signed an agreement with the supplier to source UK grown frozen vegetables for all its 274 stores.
The company claimed several thousand extra acres of UK produce will now be grown to meet the demand.
Asda said 120,000 food miles will be saved by switching to UK supply and a lifeline given to more than 80 farmers who will be contracted to supply the retailer on a fixed price basis. The decision means Asda is doubling the amount of UK veg it sources for its frozen products.
The farmers involved include a group of 42 producers, based in the Scottish borders, who farm 20,000 acres for Scottish Borders Produce.
Andrew Letham, field manager at SBP, said: “The contract means our pea growers have a much brighter future. It will enable them to invest in their businesses and ensure that together we can supply the very best quality British peas for Asda's customers.”
Asda’s frozen veg general manager, Andrew Palfrey, said: “This is a bold move that will deliver great quality and value to our customers whilst once again demonstrating our support for UK farmers.”
Roger Welberry, from EFW Ltd, chairman of the Holland Lincolnshire NFU veg committee described the deal as great news for British farmers, he said: “Asda’s commitment to purchasing frozen vegetables from UK growers will give much more stability to the vegetable market.
“The supply agreement with Fullers gives growers a fixed price and fixed tonnage requirement prior to planting, and is a first in terms of its long-term commitment to UK growers for frozen veg.”
In addition to the benefits to UK farmers and growers, the deal will also reduce road miles and congestion, Asda claimed.
All of the vegetables will be processed and packed through one hub site in the UK, which will provide the central supply route to all of Asda’s distribution centres. It is predicted that 120,000 food miles will be saved as a result of the deal.
Jason Fuller, sales director at Fullers Foods described the deal as a major step forward. He said: “This deal represents 30,000 tonnes of vegetables and is reward for over a year's worth of planning and hard work. We can now raise the bar in terms of improved quality, and ensure we always deliver ‘Best Ever’ availability for Asda’s customers, whilst helping to secure a future for our farmers.”
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