Waitrose is on the verge of achieving a ‘confinement free’ status in its Italian pork supply chain, aligning it with its UK operations.
- The retailer sources charcuterie produce from Europe with a focus on high quality welfare standards matching its UK supply base.
- Waitrose plans to enhance the welfare standards in its European supply chain, aiming for completion by 2025.
- Endorsement from Compassion in World Farming highlights Waitrose’s commitment to animal welfare in international supply chains.
- The ‘no compromise’ campaign underscores the consistent quality of meat and dairy across Waitrose’s product range.
Waitrose is nearing the completion of making its Italian pork supply chain ‘confinement free’, striving to match the high welfare standards established in the UK. Although primarily focused on UK-based operations, the retailer sources certain charcuterie products from Europe, where it aims to elevate the welfare criteria of its suppliers.
According to Waitrose’s senior agriculture manager, Jake Pickering, the company is close to confirming that its Italian suppliers will be free from confinement practices. He emphasised that while the international pork supply chain is not yet on par with the British one, a definitive plan supported by Compassion in World Farming is in place to rectify this by 2025.
Waitrose launched its ‘no compromise’ animal welfare campaign recently, as a reminder of its leadership in ethical sourcing. This campaign not only highlights the supermarket’s broad welfare standards but also assures customers of consistent quality across its product lines. The initiative emphasises that the same welfare standards are applied to all meat and dairy ingredients within their offerings, from ready meals to pizzas.
Jake Pickering reiterated that ‘There is no compromise’ when it comes to their welfare values, showcasing Waitrose’s dedication to maintaining high standards across all markets.
With these initiatives, Waitrose positions itself at the forefront of ethical retail, ensuring that all aspects of their supply chain adhere to stringent welfare policies.
Waitrose’s efforts to improve animal welfare in its Italian pork supply chain reflect its commitment to aligning international standards with those set in the UK.
