Aldi and Sainsbury’s have welcomed the publication of the government’s ‘Good Food Cycle’ framework, which aims to deliver healthier eating, stronger food security, and greener supply chains in the UK.
The plan identifies ten priority outcomes needed to build a “thriving food sector” while tackling challenges such as rising obesity rates and the impact of climate change on production.
The government noted that key outcomes from the Good Food Cycle initiative include an improved food environment that supports healthier and more environmentally sustainable food sales; access for all to safe, affordable, healthy, convenient and appealing food options; and conditions for the food sector to thrive and grow sustainably, including investment in innovation and productivity, and fairer more transparent supply chains.
A government statement said: “Building stronger, more resilient food supply chains protects Britain from potential disruptions and strengthens our national security. Making sure everyone can afford healthy food drives our health mission by helping people stay well and reducing pressure on the NHS. We’re also working to give children the nutritious start they need to thrive at school and beyond to give every child the best possible start in life, whatever their background.”
As a member of the government’s Food Strategy Advisory Board and the sole retailer involved, Sainsbury’s CEO, Simon Roberts, reaffirmed his group’s commitment to building a resilient food system.
He said: “Britain’s food system should be a powerhouse of economic growth, innovation and job creation, but in the face of ongoing and significant challenges, we need to work with bold ambition, commitment and focus to secure its future.
“The government’s Good Food Cycle is a positive step towards building a more resilient food system, and that ensures food in the UK is consistently healthier, more sustainable and more accessible to all for generations to come.
“The real work starts now. To unlock growth, and build a UK food system that works for everyone, we will need to work with pace, passion and focus across government and industry to seize this opportunity.”
Giles Hurley, CEO of Aldi UK, added: “As one of the biggest supporters of British produce, we know how important it is to build resilient supply chains that deliver healthy, affordable food for our customers – both now and in the future.
“We welcome the focus and direction of today’s Good Food Cycle framework and look forward to working together to ensure the security of the UK’s food system”.
Meanwhile, Andrew Opie, Director of Food & Sustainability at the BRC, commented: “Retailers welcome the ambition and direction of the framework. They know customers want more British food, sustainably produced and with clear healthy choices; something we believe this approach can help to deliver.”
NAM Implications:
- The intent is clear….
- …with potential benefits for all.
- Success will depend on the extent to which retailers confine competition to aspects that don’t compromise potential benefits…
- …but real potential gains for businesses that take the principles to heart.
- And act now…
