Lidl is set to exceed its original five-year British food investment target by 40%, reaching £21bn by year’s end.
- The German retailer has invested approximately £5bn in British sectors in the past year, championing local agriculture.
- Two-thirds of Lidl’s product range in Britain comes from local suppliers, with key fresh products being entirely sourced within the UK.
- The upcoming Grassroots Farming Conference aims to enhance farmer relationships and address vital sector issues.
- Lidl’s commitment underscores its support for British farmers and ensuring quality home-grown produce for consumers.
Lidl is on track to significantly surpass its five-year commitment with an investment of £21 billion in the British food industry by the end of 2024. This substantial increase marks a 40% rise from the initial target of £15 billion. The German discount retailer has focused on bolstering British agriculture, investing around £5 billion over the past year across various sectors.
Currently, two-thirds of Lidl’s permanent product range in the United Kingdom is sourced from British suppliers. Notably, the company ensures that all fresh everyday milk, butter, eggs, cream, pork, chicken, and beef available in its stores are sourced from within the country.
In a bid to further strengthen ties with the agricultural sector, Lidl is organising a Grassroots Farming Conference scheduled for February. This event aims to address pivotal issues such as agricultural policy and mental health, featuring speakers of note like Alex Burrows, NACFT chair; Michael Kavanagh, director of Green Farm Collective; and Stephanie Berkeley of the Farm Safety Foundation.
Richard Bourns, Chief Commercial Officer of Lidl GB, reflected on the company’s 30-year presence in Great Britain, highlighting the strong relationships cultivated with British suppliers. He stated, “Now more than ever, we remain committed to supporting British farmers, ensuring we’re a dependable partner to those who put quality, home-grown food on Lidl shelves across the country.” Lidl’s ongoing investment efforts aim to ensure the continued success and availability of British-sourced products cherished by consumers throughout the year.
Lidl’s enhanced investment in British agriculture reaffirms its dedication to sustaining local farming and delivering quality produce to consumers.
