Morrisons has initiated a trial to ease financial strain on British farmers.
- The scheme will cover 100% of costs for growing crops, including field rent and fertiliser.
- Initial trials are underway on potato and carrot farms, with produce expected by year-end.
- Success could see the scheme expand to additional farms next year.
- Morrisons emphasises its commitment to high-quality British produce.
Morrisons has embarked on a strategic trial designed to alleviate the financial pressures faced by British farmers. This initiative aims to underwrite the entirety of expenses related to crop cultivation, encompassing costs such as field rent and fertiliser. By removing these financial burdens, Morrison seeks to offer farmers enhanced economic security.
Currently, the trial is operational on three potato farms and a single carrot farm, with initial products anticipated to reach retail shelves before the conclusion of the year and into 2024. Should the trial prove successful, there is potential for expansion to include a broader spectrum of farms by the following year.
Gareth Cosford, Senior Buying Manager for root vegetables, articulates the rationale behind this trial: “As British farming’s biggest direct customer we understand the impact that higher costs are continuing to have on farmers. Therefore 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.”
Andrew Nash, Director of the participating Naish Farms Ltd, which specialises in potato production, acknowledges the scheme’s benefits: “The scheme will cushion us from the associated risks and provide supply security so that we can focus on growing the very best potatoes for their customers.” He further notes that Morrisons’ purchasing strategy includes acquiring both top-quality and irregularly shaped potatoes, a practice that maximises farmer returns while offering considerable value to consumers.
The Naturally Wonky range, commenced in 2015 by Morrisons, embodies this inclusive purchasing approach. Last year, 27,000 tonnes of such produce were transacted, delivering cost-effective options for customers while ensuring no segment of agricultural yield is rendered waste.
Morrisons’ trial scheme underscores its dedication to mitigating farmer costs and securing high-quality, affordable produce for consumers.
