Supplies of Welsh beef and lamb in Co-op Group stores is set to double following a £1.5bn investment over three years, the retailer has announced.
With this move, the group is doubling its stock of Welsh beef and lamb after committing to providing British produce.
Welsh cabinet secretary for environment and rural affairs, Lesley Griffiths, said: "I am grateful to the Co-op for their commitment to doubling its stock of Welsh lamb and beef, offering it in over 160 stores across Wales.
"This news will provide a real boost to Wales’ lamb and beef producers.
"Food and drink is a real Welsh success story. We are already more than half way towards achieving our target of 30% growth in the sector by 2020.
"Welsh lamb and beef is at the forefront of our larder of world class produce and I am sure the range on offer in the Co-op’s stores will prove to be popular with customers."
Local economy
Simon Dryell, ranging manager for the Co-op in Wales, said food provenance, quality and trust are important cues for customers.
"The Co-op's Farming Groups and its collaborative approach not only offer greater security and stability to local suppliers and producers but also plays a key part in unlocking opportunities.
"Backing local produce is about much more than just hanging out the bunting, and as a community retailer we are committed to investing in our local economies and providing new opportunities to showcase and celebrate great home-grown produce.
"Working together, the partnership approach is key to unlocking greater potential, meeting customer needs, adding value through product development and meal solutions, and ultimately making a bigger difference throughout the supply-chain."
In addition to sourcing local beef and lamb, the co-op is working with a range of micro-breweries. In December it added 11 new Welsh small micro-breweries to it range, including: Boss Brewing from Llansamlet, Swansea; the Llandudno-based Great Orme Brewery; the family-run Glamorgan Brewing Co, and Tiny Rebel, based in Newport.
