UK retailer the Co-operative is rolling out its local sourcing programme across the country, following a successful pilot in Yorkshire.
New programmes are being introduced in Lancashire, Cheshire, Cornwall, Devon, Wales, Avon and Somerset, as the retailer aims to double its number of local suppliers.
“We know that food provenance really matters to our customers," said Charlotte Bleasdale, ranging manager for the Co-op in Yorkshire. "Quality, trust and value are key for consumers."
Yorkshire Success
The Yorkshire local sourcing scheme was first introduced two years ago, and now more than 150 local lines are supplied to the retailer's 250 Yorkshire stores, including eggs, milk, bread, ice cream, sweets, crisps, potatoes, sausages, and beer.
"Our approach sets out clear principles to foster closer relationships and support for local suppliers – we want these businesses to thrive and so we do not seek exclusivity for instance," added Bleasdale.
"It is the innovation, traditions, quality and passion of the producers which makes for prized local products, and we are delighted to give them pride of place in our stores."
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Sarah Harford. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine
