Morrisons has initiated a groundbreaking trial to support British farmers financially by covering all crop growth costs, offering a safety net against economic and weather-related challenges.
- This scheme currently benefits select potato and carrot farms, with plans for future expansion contingent on trial outcomes.
- Morrisons’ strategy aims to alleviate the financial risks of farming, potentially stabilising prices and supply for consumers.
- The programme includes the purchase of entire crops, including visually imperfect vegetables, promoting sustainability and value.
- This initiative highlights Morrisons’ ongoing commitment to bolstering British agriculture amidst rising production costs.
Morrisons has announced a significant trial designed to support British farmers by underwriting 100% of the expenses involved in cultivating crops. This pioneering approach is intended to assist farmers in managing the escalating costs and weather-related pressures they face, further securing their economic stability. The trial initially involves three potato farms and one carrot farm, with produce expected to reach supermarkets by the end of this year and into 2024. Successful implementation could see an expansion to additional farms, extending this financial safety throughout the agricultural sector.
Gareth Cosford, Morrisons’ senior buying manager for root vegetables, emphasised the company’s understanding of the financial strains faced by farmers. Cosford stated, “Our trial scheme allows us to take all the risk associated with growing the crop away from our farmers and continue to grow the best quality British produce that our customers know and love.” This statement underscores Morrisons’ role as a key partner to British agriculture, aiming to ensure both quality produce and financial resilience for farmers.
Andrew Nash from Naish Farms Ltd, participating in this initiative, described how the scheme offers “cushion from the associated risks and provide supply security so that we can focus on growing the very best potatoes for their customers.” Naish Farms already has an established relationship with Morrisons, supplying them with a full range of potatoes, including those that are uniquely shaped or oversized, as part of the Naturally Wonky range. This practice utilises crops fully, ensuring that no viable produce is wasted.
The Naturally Wonky range, introduced by Morrisons in 2015, sells aesthetically unconventional fruits and vegetables at lower prices, reflecting the retailer’s commitment to sustainability and waste reduction. Last year, around 27,000 tonnes of such produce were sold, demonstrating consumer interest in affordable and environmentally considerate options. This ongoing practice aligns with the current initiative, further strengthening Morrisons’ supply chain responsibility and customer value proposition.
Morrisons’ innovative trial reflects its pivotal role in supporting British agriculture, ensuring sustainable and financially secure farming practices.
