Lidl GB has announced that it will help fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers challenged by an increase in the quantity of ‘stunted’ crops due to unfavourable weather conditions.
The discounter will work closely with suppliers to identify key crop challenges, and where possible accommodate these products within its existing lines.
The move will help prevent good quality produce from going to waste because of variations in appearance or size.
Ryan McDonnell, Lidl GB CEO said, “Farmers across the country are facing a big challenge this year due to the extreme weather conditions experienced over the summer months.
“Whilst the crop coming out may look and feel a bit different to what we’re all used to, it’s still the same great British quality. We therefore want to show support for our suppliers by working with them to find solutions to help.”
Other Commitments
Lidl will also fund and implement 10 whole chain food waste projects by 2025.
It will work with suppliers to find further solutions to reducing waste and creating additional value in the supply chain.
This initiative builds on Lidl’s efforts to tackle food waste throughout its supply chain.
Lidl GB added that it was one of the first supermarkets to sign the NFU Fruit and Veg Pledge in 2016, underlining a commitment to help work in a sustainable way with all growers.
In addition, it launched Too Good to Waste boxes in 2019, offering approximately five kilograms fruit and vegetables at £1.50.
It includes produce that would have otherwise been thrown away despite being eligible for consumption.
The boxes are put together on a daily basis by the discounter’s in-store 'Freshness Specialists' and are available while stocks last.
© 2022 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest fresh produce news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.
