Aldi shoppers can look forward to sweeter, bigger raspberries this summer as the supermarket prepares to stock 100% British-grown fruit following the start of the British raspberry season.
According to Aldi’s berry suppliers, this year’s crop is expected to be both sweeter and larger than usual, with the cooler spring allowing for a slower ripening process and enhanced flavour development.
With demand for British berries continuing to soar, Aldi is predicting raspberry sales will rise by 15% year on year after selling 1,900 tonnes between June and September last year – the equivalent of almost 12 million punnets.
British-grown raspberries started arriving in Aldi stores from 27th May, marking the supermarket’s transition to 100% British-grown fresh raspberries across all UK stores.
Aldi works closely with British growers to bring shoppers high-quality produce at unbeatable value.
Julie Ashfield, chief commercial officer at Aldi UK, said: “We expect our raspberries to taste better than ever this season, showcasing the fantastic quality of British produce available across Aldi stores.
“We’re proud to work with British farmers and growers across the country while helping customers enjoy more great British produce.”
As part of its continued support for British growers, Aldi has teamed up with farmer and TV personality Harriet Cowan to champion British-grown fruit and vegetables and encourage shoppers to buy more produce grown in the UK.
New research commissioned by Aldi found that while 80% of shoppers say supporting British farmers is important to them, only 27% actively consider whether fruit and vegetables are grown in Britain when deciding what to buy.*
It also revealed many shoppers do not realise vegetables including cucumbers, courgettes and aubergines can all be grown in the UK.
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.”
To help shoppers make the most of British produce, Harriet has also picked a series of seasonal recipes, available at: www.aldi.co.uk/harrietcowan
