As a sheep producer, I take great pride in British lamb and sending our product to supermarkets for the public to enjoy. However, we’re in the middle of peak British lamb season and it has come to light that Tesco’s British lamb facings fell by 15% compared to last year.
The statistics from AHDB’s Beef and Lamb Watch leave producers extremely frustrated, which is why the NFU has called on Tesco to make their sourcing policy for British lamb clear.
As Brexit looms, the livestock sector needs the support of the retailers – particularly one that claims to be UK agriculture’s biggest customer. I should think by now that the concerns of the sector regarding Brexit would be well known to major retailers but it seems I need to reiterate that unclear sourcing policies do nothing to inspire farmers’ confidence.
British food is a valued product and surveys have shown that 86% of shoppers want to see more British food on the shelves.
With so many retailers taking positive steps to promote British food and support producers, it’s a shame that it seems like Tesco isn’t supporting British during peak season when our lamb is in plentiful supply and of great quality.
A clear sourcing policy from Tesco for British lamb would allow producers’ to plan future production but it would crucially provide clarity and confidence at a time when this is at a paramount.