The Kerrs Pink, a variety of potato originally bred over one hundred years ago, is being reintroduced into 34 Asda stores across Scotland. Asda, a division of retail giant Wal-Mart, claim that sales of Scottish potatoes have doubled since the start of a local sourcing initiative in which Ayrshire breeds were introduced.
Waitrose's commitment to reducing animal transport time, its high sales of free range and organic products and its stand against genetic engineering has won it the title of Compassionate Supermarket of the Year.
Waitrose beat seven other retailers and were hailed by CIWF's campaigns director Kerry Burgess as being "committed to making progress". Last years winners, Marks & Spencer, was honoured again with an award entitled "Welfare Ideal - Most Advanced Supermarket."
A guide to help small producers make the right impression when they approach retailers, foodservice and contract catering companies, put together with the help of the NFU, was launched today by HRH the Prince of Wales. 'Local Sourcing, Opening the Door for Small Business' is available free of charge to farmers, growers and small food businesses to help them sell their products to food retailers, foodservice and catering companies.
NFU head of food and farming Robin Tapper said: "This is a clear and concise practical guide, bringing together information on how to approach the food retailing, foodservice and contract catering sectors". The NFU has already recognised the growing demand for locally produced food. The guide takes potential suppliers through a detailed break-down of the buying process,how to communicate with buyers and the difference between supermarkets and convenience stores.
The guide can be downloaded from the nfuonline's member's section.
A recent article queries Tesco's commitment to ethical trading:
"We believe that one of the fundamental causes of poor working conditions and labour standards among suppliers is the intense focus that supermarkets place on controlling costs by putting consistent downward pressure on the prices paid to suppliers.
"We emphasised our view that, in order to secure long-term shareholder value, a careful balance needs to be struck between cost control and responsible supply chain management. We encouraged Tesco to ensure that steps are being taken to align its buying policies and practices with its ethical trading commitment."
Tesco has thus far declined to take part in the Race to the Top project.
