The Co-op has pledged to double its number of local suppliers under a new small business charter that also promises to break down barriers and avoid audit duplication.
Under the commitment, the number of small Co-op suppliers will rise to 1,200 by the end of 2017. Other pledges on the five-point charter include breaking down barriers by sharing technical expertise; avoiding expensive and duplicate audits; not seeking exclusivity to help small businesses to grow; and building long-term relationships with suppliers and growers.
Food minister, George Eustice, said: “From family-owned microbreweries to local vegetable suppliers, small businesses are the heart of our food and drink industry. It is great to see a major retailer like the Co-op supporting local suppliers and producers, bringing a real boost to communities around the country.”
Co-op’s retail chief executive Steve Murrells said: 'These are prized local products. We know our customers care about the provenance of their food and are keen to champion British products wherever they can.
“As a community retailer we want to make a difference in the communities we serve, working with more small suppliers who produce locally loved products to give great British food pride of place on our shelves.”
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