Aldi backs British growers by extending long-term agreements for homegrown produce

UK’s biggest discounter commits to securing 50% of domestic produce through multi-year deals by 2027 as UK growers face mounting pressures 

Aldi is increasing the number of long-term agreements it has in place with British produce and horticulture suppliers as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting UK growers.

The UK’s fourth-largest supermarket is aiming to secure a minimum of 50% of its domestic produce supply through long-term agreements by the end of 2027, helping to provide greater certainty and long-term stability for growers with the aim of building more resilient supply chains.

The move comes as British farmers and growers continue to face some of the toughest weather conditions in decades. Last year’s extreme heat and drought cost the sector millions due to lost production, followed by one of the wettest winters on record, with waterlogged fields and destroyed autumn crops.

The agreements – which cover any commitment of two years or more – will be available to both large and small-scale producers who demonstrate strong performance on availability, quality, and value.

Around 75% of Aldi’s sales come from products bought from UK-based suppliers, making it one of the largest supporters of British producers in the grocery sector.

Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, said: “British growers are at the very heart of our business, and are essential to the delivering great quality fresh produce to our customers every single day. 

“Extending our long-term agreements to more supplier partners is about strengthening those partnerships and providing greater certainty for our suppliers, giving them the confidence to invest in more efficient and sustainable farming methods.”

The announcement builds on Aldi’s wider commitment to long-term partnerships with British growers. The supermarket previously agreed a £750 million, 20-year deal with Kent-based fruit farm AC Goatham & Son, its sole supplier of British apples, supporting the creation of a dedicated ‘Aldi Orchard’ to supply fruit to its UK stores.