Aldi is committing over £5 billion to long-term supplier agreements as part of its ongoing support for British farming and food production.
By increasing its long-term agreements with domestic producers, Aldi is enabling its suppliers to invest in the growth of their operations and capacity across fresh produce, dairy, meat and eggs, while giving farmers and producers greater long-term certainty to plan ahead and invest.
The agreements typically run for two years or more, and Aldi is aiming to source 50% of its domestic produce through long-term agreements by the end of 2027.
Julie Ashfield, chief commercial officer at Aldi UK, said: “British suppliers are at the heart of our business. These long-term agreements give farmers and producers the stability they need to plan ahead, invest in their operations, and build more resilient supply chains.
“We’re committed to backing UK agriculture for the long term and ensuring customers continue to benefit from high-quality, affordable British food.”
Aldi has signed a number of long-term agreements with British growers and producers, including with Kent-based fruit grower AC Goatham & Son, its sole supplier of British apples. The partnership supports a dedicated “Aldi Orchard” supplying fruit to stores across the UK.
Aldi has also committed £1.1 billion to UK egg production over the next five years, strengthening poultry supply chains and providing greater certainty for British farmers.
This comes as new research reveals that while 80% of UK adults say supporting British or local farmers is important to them, only 27% actively consider whether fruit and vegetables are grown in the UK when shopping.*
A poll of 2,000 adults also found that Brits were unsure that everyday vegetables such as courgettes, cucumbers and aubergines can be grown in Britain, while staple ingredients including peppers, sweet potatoes and runner beans were commonly assumed to only be grown overseas.
In addition, 43% say they are not confident identifying what is in season at different times of the year, while nearly half (47%) report cooking the same meals year-round.
As part of its work to promote home-grown food, Aldi has partnered with farmer and TV personality Harriet Cowan to highlight the importance of buying British-grown fruit and vegetables.
Harriet has shared a series of recipes featuring British fruit and vegetables, including Creamy Pea and Pesto Pasta Skillet, Pork Tenderloin with Rhubarb Sauce, Beef and Pepper Stir Fry, and Hot Honey Carrots, available here: www.aldi.co.uk/harrietcowan.
Harriet Cowan said: “I’m passionate about highlighting the brilliant work British farmers do to bring high-quality food to our tables.
“I’ve loved teaming up with Aldi to learn more about the fruit and veg we grow here in the UK and to shine a light on what’s in season.”
