Written by John Swire
British plants and flowers growers have received the backing from another major retailer as Co-op becomes the latest to sign the NFU’s Plants and Flowers pledge.
With the UK ornamentals sector now worth £1.3bn, Co-op has become the second retailer to sign the pledge which promotes transparency and fairness across the industry. The pledge makes a number of assurances to British growers, including; fair treatment of all suppliers in accordance with the Groceries Supply Code of Practice, offering greater price certainty to growers and providing a wider choice of seasonal British plants and flowers for shoppers to buy.
This pledge demonstrates a public commitment from retailers to British growers, which will enable them to invest and grow production, providing high quality plants and flowers to customers at all price points.
NFU President Minette Batters said: “We are delighted that Co-op has signed the pledge which supports and protects British growers and recognises the efforts they make to produce high quality produce.
“British growers produce iconic plants and flowers such as daffodils and chrysanthemums, and over the past 20 years the ornamentals sector has doubled in farm gate value from £650m to around £1.3bn. The sector is a crucial part of the UK’s horticultural industry, employing around 300,000 people across production, retail and landscaping.
“Co-op has committed to working closely with suppliers to promote fairness and build long-term relationships. We urge other retailers to show their support by signing the NFU’s Plant and Flowers Pledge.”
Caroline Mason, Head of Agriculture at Co-op, said: “We’re delighted to be championing the NFU Plants and Flowers pledge as a proud supporter of British farmers and growers. Our customers and members love home-grown flowers and we’ll continue to offer British flower varieties when in season, all year round.”
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