UK supermarket giant Tesco has joined forces with poultry processing leader Cranswick to relaunch its innovative Tesco Sustainable Pig Group (TSPG).
The TSPG was originally established in partnership with Cranswick, Tesco’s long-standing supplier, and aims to encompass all farming production methods employed throughout the UK. Notably, the group will include farms of varying sizes, enabling a comprehensive approach to sustainable farming. Tesco estimates that this initiative could generate a substantial economic impact, with potential earnings reaching at least £670 million over the initial three years.
This collaborative group is poised to play a “significant role” in refining Tesco’s strategy toward sustainable production. By fostering a collaborative environment, the TSPG will provide a vital forum bringing together suppliers, farmers, and Tesco experts. The goal is to enhance animal welfare, stimulate innovation, uphold quality standards, and encourage cooperative practices within the industry.
Among the key improvements being incentivized in animal welfare are initiatives aimed at increasing the number of farms adopting enhanced farrowing practices and reducing stocking densities across the TSPG network. Such measures are integral to creating a more humane and environmentally responsible farming landscape.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that Tesco currently operates Sustainable Farming Groups across various supply chains. These include essential products such as milk, cheese, beef, lamb, and potatoes, reinforcing Tesco’s commitment to sustainability across its entire food portfolio.
Fostering Collaboration and Innovation
Ashwin Prasad, Chief Commercial Officer at Tesco, shared insights on this initiative: “Our dedicated British farmers have faced some challenging times recently, and we’ve been doing everything we can to support them. Our sustainable farming groups play a vital role, providing forums for collaboration and innovation, as well as encouraging improvements in product quality, animal welfare, and environmental measures.”
Prasad emphasized the importance of this new initiative, stating, “With this in mind, I’m delighted to announce a step up in our support for our British pig farmers. Our new cost of production mechanism and bonus incentives will provide real benefits to farmers who will be able to invest in key welfare, sustainability, and efficiency improvements.” These enhancements promise to yield significant advantages for all stakeholders involved in the supply chain.
Moreover, Adam Couch, CEO at Cranswick, expressed his enthusiasm regarding this partnership: “It is great to see Tesco’s continued commitment to British pig farming, and we are delighted to be collaborating with them to ensure the long-term viability of the sector.” His remarks highlight the critical nature of such partnerships in promoting sustainable agriculture.
Couch added, “Our own farming expertise, long-standing producer relationships, and partnership with Tesco will undoubtedly accelerate sustainable, higher welfare practices. We are excited to see how this innovative approach can benefit both producers and consumers alike.” This optimistic outlook underscores the potential for transforming the British pig farming sector through shared knowledge and innovative practices.