Sainsbury’s has announced a 10-year partnership with Cranswick to have its pork, sausages, bacon, and gammon, and cooked meats supplied through the UK producer.
Sainsbury’s said the move will be made possible by British farmers working for Sainsbury’s and Cranswick under its pork producer group.
The supermarket said the partnership will elevate animal welfare standards beyond the industry recommended Red Tractor quality mark.
Sainsbury’s said it will be investing £50 million to implement the changes within the next five years, with an additional £11 million being invested by Cranswick to help build the new sheds and housing for the pigs.
Rhian Bartlett, Sainsbury’s chief commercial officer, said: “This 10-year partnership with Cranswick means that we are able to place a bigger focus on animal welfare, financial security for our farmers, and sustainable production of our pork range; all while protecting value for customers.”
The company said the move includes direct investment in flexible farrowing accommodation, the area where pigs are housed during the birthing process, which will provide extra space for the sows and piglets.
The company also said the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) technology will also allow for 24/7 monitoring of the animals and inform improvements to welfare.
Sainsbury’s said the partnership will provide for the 170 farmers in its pork producers group with reassurance to invest in their farms for the future.
The company stated it will be working closely on environmentally sustainable practices with the new contract allowing for the continuation of current trials into the reduction of soya and a focus on more sustainable cereal feedstocks.
Chief commercial officer with Cranswick, Jim Brisby, said: “The purpose of the new partnership is to provide a total supply chain approach delivering a robust and differentiated consumer offer across British pork related categories including fresh joints and steaks, sausages, cooked meats, and premium bacon and gammon.”
