NFU Scotland has once again called on major retailers to increase their efforts and offer more Scottish and British lamb and follow suit of others, like Aldi, which is doubling its offering in the face of increasing consumer demand.
Poor prices over the summer have lowered optimism in the lamb market but news that Aldi has seen increased demand for lamb grow is welcome news to many across the industry. NFU Scotland has now asked other retailers if they are also seeing an increase in demand and if so, how they plan to capitalise on this.
NFUS Livestock Committee Chairman Charlie Adam commented: “We have thrown the gauntlet down to those retailers to boost lamb sales in the wake of the news that Aldi is doubling its range of domestic lamb.
“Last week Sainsbury’s also committed to extending their British lamb season in the future and this is welcomed. We now urge all retailers to increase their commitment to domestic produce.
“Our message is simple, demand for lamb is increasing and this demand must filter down to farmers who need a better return from the market. We have spoken to other retailers who have similar plans and are expecting more detail in the coming weeks.
“Scotch lamb is known for its quality and provenance and we firmly believe that the whole supply chain must work together toward a sustainable future for the sector.
“We need a fair supply chain that rewards farmers enough for their efforts. In September we saw on 43.8 per cent of the retail price being paid to the farmer.”
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Contact Ruth McClean on 0131 472 4108