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Lidl GB (Great Britain) has outlined a groundbreaking £30 billion investment in British food and farming over the next five years.

The commitment, which represents a 100% increase over their previous investment, aims to bolster the resilience and sustainability of the British supply chain while enhancing the quality and value of products offered to consumers.

Richard Bourns, chief commercial officer of Lidl GB, said on a LinkedIn post: “This isn’t just a number. It’s a strategic, long-term commitment that places British farmers, growers and suppliers at the heart of our growth plans.”

The initiative is designed to provide 650+ British suppliers, along with numerous farmers and growers, with the stability and confidence needed to invest in their operations and innovate for the future.

Lidl’s investment will focus on several critical areas:

Security for British suppliers: By backing local suppliers, Lidl aims to foster an environment where suppliers can thrive, ensuring a steady supply of quality products for consumers.

Bourns noted: “Backing British delivers security for British suppliers, providing the confidence and stability they need to invest and innovate”.

Sustainable growth: The retailer plans to establish long-term partnerships with suppliers to lay the groundwork for sustainable practices in farming and food production.

“This is about more than shelf space. It’s about long-term partnerships with the farmers, growers and producers who make it all possible,” Bourns added.

Market-leading value for customers: Lidl intends to leverage these partnerships to continue delivering unbeatable value on quality British products, meeting the growing demand from consumers for locally sourced goods.

“We’re here for the long haul,” Bourns stated, reinforcing Lidl’s commitment to its suppliers and customers alike.

Bourns also highlighted the importance of collaboration with suppliers: “Our success is rooted in the brilliance of the suppliers we work with. We’re extremely proud to back British businesses, supporting a resilient and sustainable supply chain for the future.”

As the fastest-growing bricks-and-mortar supermarket in the UK, Lidl says it recognises its expanding responsibility within the British food system.

The retailer’s commitment includes significant investments in various sectors, such as:

• LEAF-certified produce: Lidl aims to source 100% of its fruit and vegetables from LEAF-certified farms, promoting sustainable farming practices.

  
  

• Investment in British beef: The company is allocating £1.5 billion specifically for British beef, ensuring that local farmers benefit from increased demand.

  
  

• Water stewardship initiatives: Lidl is also focusing on sustainable water management practices to support farming sustainability.