Lidl GB has partnered with egg company Kipster to produce eggs from chickens farmed “to the highest welfare standards”, it said.
The grocer said the new partnership will also see it significantly reduce its carbon footprint, with the remaining offset through the purchase of carbon credits.
The partnership means Lidl shoppers will be able to purchase eggs from Kipster’s British “egg farm of the future” from Spring 2025 – once planning permission for a farm in Shropshire has been granted.
Lidl said the “Kipster concept” has been developed in partnership with scientists and animal welfare organisations to meet the needs and instincts of chickens.
The farm will see chickens to roam freely inside or out with access to an indoor playground, Lidl said.
The farm will also have live 24/7 web cams installed, with the aim of being transparent on the living conditions of the chickens.
Lidl GB’s chief commercial officer, Peter de Roos, said: “When we first met with Kipster, we were instantly struck by their devotion and commitment to providing the highest welfare standards for chickens and roosters, whilst also doing right by the planet.
“At Lidl we want to give our customers the very best products at the best possible prices, which is why we’re so excited to be the first grocer to bring Kipster’s eggs to our stores across Great Britain.
“We would urge Telford and Wrekin Council to approve the plans to ensure that British shoppers have access to this industry leading egg.”
Founder of Kipster, Ruud Zanders, said: “We are delighted to be working with British farmers who are keen to take the next step towards more animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
“We are immensely grateful to Lidl for the trust they put in us to get Kipster off the ground in the UK.
“With their support we farmers can close the gap between what we’re doing and what people want and need, which is more ethically and sustainably produced food.”
