Lidl commits to a 40% increase in its investment in the UK food sector, reaching £21 billion by the end of 2024.
- The company surpasses its initial five-year target of £15 billion, showcasing its dedication to British agriculture.
- Two-thirds of Lidl’s permanent product range is sourced from British suppliers, emphasizing local support.
- The upcoming Grassroots Farming Conference by Lidl aims to bolster ties with farmers, addressing key sectoral issues.
- Lidl GB’s chief commercial officer highlights the company’s three-decade journey and ongoing support for British farmers.
Lidl is set to boost its investment in the British food industry to an impressive £21 billion by the close of 2024, marking a significant 40% increase over its original goal of £15 billion. This commitment reflects the German discounter’s dedication to enhancing British agriculture as it celebrates three decades of operations in Great Britain.
In the past year alone, Lidl injected approximately £5 billion into various sectors, highlighting a strong focus on championing local agriculture. Two-thirds of the products in Lidl’s permanent range are sourced from British suppliers. Moreover, the company ensures that all its fresh everyday milk, butter, eggs, cream, pork, chicken, and beef are sourced entirely from British farms.
Looking to strengthen its relationship with the farming community, Lidl will launch a Grassroots Farming Conference in February. This initiative will bring together key industry figures to discuss pressing topics such as agricultural policy and mental health. Notable speakers include Alex Burrows, chair of NACFT, Michael Kavanagh, director of Green Farm Collective, and Stephanie Berkeley from the Farm Safety Foundation.
Richard Bourns, Lidl GB’s chief commercial officer, reflects on the company’s growth, stating, “One of the things we’re most proud of are the strong relationships we’ve built with British suppliers, who have grown with us over the years.” He emphasizes Lidl’s unwavering commitment to supporting local farmers and ensuring the availability of quality British-sourced products on its shelves all year round.
Lidl’s increased investment underscores its commitment to supporting British agriculture and fostering strong supplier relationships.
