Lidl is committing £1bn to the UK egg sector to boost growth and sustainability.
- The investment will address the shortage of British free-range egg farms and enhance farmer support.
- Free-range egg sales at Lidl have surged by 34% over the past year, reflecting consumer demand for local produce.
- The initiative includes long-term production contracts and financial support for infrastructure development.
- Lidl is paving the way for an exclusive focus on British free-range eggs in its stores.
Lidl has announced a substantial investment of £1 billion into the British egg industry over the upcoming five years. This move is driven by the significant growth in free-range egg sales, which have increased by 34% in the past year. This increase highlights a strong consumer preference for higher welfare, locally produced eggs.
The company has established a producer group comprising farmers within the sector, targeting the shortage of British free-range egg farms. Farmers within this group will benefit from long-term cost of production contracts, ensuring them stable prices and guaranteed minimum volumes. Additional support includes assistance in securing finance from banks and funds to develop new free-range sheds.
Further supporting the industry, Lidl has introduced white eggs across all UK stores. These eggs, produced by white-feathered hens, are noted for their productivity and environmental sustainability. These hens consume less feed and lay eggs longer, yet offer the same quality and nutritional value as traditional brown eggs.
Lidl’s commitment to supporting British farmers is reinforced by statements from Richard Bourns, its Chief Commercial Officer. He emphasises the company’s dedication to providing farmers with the necessary confidence and security to invest in their operations. “We are proud to support British farmers – they are critical to our business,” said Bourns. “Together with our producer groups, we’ve developed long-term cost of production contracts, providing farmers with the confidence and security they need to invest in their business.”
Lidl’s £1bn investment sets a strong foundation for the sustainability and growth of the British egg industry.
