It has given a new update with a little help from a Clarkson’s Farm star
Aldi has announced a “major £5 billion investment in British farming and food production” through a series of long-term agreements covering eggs, meat, fruit and vegetables. The supermarket said on Friday that the move would give farmers and producers greater certainty to invest in their businesses while helping strengthen British food supply chains.
Aldi said it aimed to source 50% of its domestic produce through long-term agreements by the end of 2027, with deals typically lasting at least two years. It said the move included a £1.1 billion commitment to British egg production over the next five years.
As part of its push to champion home-grown food, Aldi has also teamed up with farmer and Clarkson’s Farm star Harriet Cowan to encourage shoppers to buy more British-grown fruit and vegetables. It comes as new research found many shoppers do not realise vegetables, including cucumbers, courgettes and aubergines, can all be grown in the UK.
The OnePoll survey of 2,000 adults found that while 80% said supporting British farmers was important to them, only 27% actively considered whether fruit and vegetables were grown in Britain when deciding what to buy.
Harriet 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.”
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 confidence to plan ahead, invest in their operations and build resilient supply chains.”
Among Aldi’s long-term partnerships is Kent-based grower AC Goatham & Son, its sole supplier of British apples, through a dedicated “Aldi Orchard” supplying stores nationwide.
To help shoppers make the most of British produce, Harriet has also picked a series of seasonal recipes, including Creamy Pea and Pesto Pasta Skillet, Pork Tenderloin with Rhubarb Sauce, Beef and Pepper Stir Fry, and Hot Honey Carrots. Recipes are available at www.aldi.co.uk/harrietcowan
