Lidl has today (Monday, July 22) committed to investing £1.5 billion into the British beef industry over the next five years.
The retailer is also launching the ‘Sustainable Beef Group’ with the aim of supporting farmers transitioning to sustainable practices, with those in the group being rewarded for achieving a reduction in carbon intensity.
Group members will also be rewarded for adopting regenerative farming techniques to improve grazing management, biodiversity and soil and water quality parameters that are unique to each farm.
Hundreds of farms across the UK have been carbon footprinted to gather data and, in partnership with the independent agricultural consultancy Promar, each farm will now be offered tailored advice to reduce their carbon emissions and support the sustainable growth of their businesses over time, Lidl said.
Within their partnership, Lidl and Dunbia have set a target to reduce their scope 3 emissions intensity by 28%/t of finished product, by 2030.
British beef
Chief commercial officer at Lidl GB, Richard Bourns, said: “As one of the largest buyers of British beef, we recognise our responsibility to support farmers adopt sustainable practices.
“This market-leading programme underpins our long-term commitment to buying 100% British, whilst investing significantly in sustainable practices that exceed industry standards.
“It ensures our customers can continue to enjoy the best in high-quality, sustainably sourced British beef at the lowest possible prices.”
Group sustainability director, UK & Ireland at Dunbia, Gill Higgins, said: “We are delighted to support Lidl with their new sustainable beef programme.
“This initiative will support British beef farmers in adopting more sustainable farming methods, while ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality beef for Lidl and their customers.
“This is a great example of how strategic partnerships and supply chain investment can support progress in the agri-food industry.”
