UK retailer The Co-Operative has announced that it is extending its local sourcing programme into Cumbria, with four local breweries among a host of producers in the county to gain contracts to supply the group.
Handsome Brewery which, based in Bowston; Penrith-based Eden Brewery; Stringers Beer of Ulverston and, the Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery Company have all earned contracts to supply the retailer.
Other suppliers to gain contracts include Kendal-based George Romney’s, a confectionery and cakes supplier; Ginger Bakers, a bakery firm and tea and coffee merchant, Farrer’s.
Local Suppliers
The move comes as part of The Co-Operative's commitment to double its level of local suppliers. It recently unveiled a 'five-point small business charter' which is designed to 'champion local producers, fostering closer relationships and breaking down the traditional trading barriers that smaller businesses can often face', according to the group.
"Backing local produce is about much more than just ‘hanging out the bunting’," commented Charlotte Bleasdale, ranging manager for the Co-op in Cumbria.
"Cumbrian food and drink is world-renowned and the Co-op, as a community retailer, is committed to investing in its local communities, supporting local economies and providing opportunities to showcase, support and celebrate great Cumbrian food and drink.”
The Co-Operative recently announced plans to invest £2.5 billion in British farming over the next three years as part of its 'Backing British' sourcing strategy.
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Stephen Wynne-Jones. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
