Sainsbury has redefined its partnership with British suppliers and growers with the development of a two way communications system via the internet. The multiple says suppliers and farmers will be able to use the system ­ developed under the Partnership in Fresh Food banner ­ to develop business opportunities, as well as to share best practice information and to tackle problems. Protected pages will be exclusive to Sainsbury's partners who will be able to access information on worldwide developments within the industry and on Sainsbury joint research programmes. Sainsbury's fresh foods director Ian Merton said: "With the current problems facing the farming industry the new Partnership in Fresh Food is designed to ensure we work together to develop the UK market wherever we can. "Setting up this structure of communication through the internet and workshops will bring great opportunities for development and innovation." The internet site was piloted and developed by Imperial College at Wye and is due to be rolled out this September. It will initially cover the fresh produce sector but will gradually expand to include meat, poultry, fish, dairy and convenience foods. And from the autumn a regular programme of workshops will open as a forum for discussion, information sharing and problem solving. NFU president Ben Gill has praised the partnership which he says will "be a boost to British farmers". He added: "It is vital that every part of the British food chain works together. Increasing understanding and the sharing of information can only help this to happen and to generate a greater trust on all sides. It is also vital the supermarkets develop a better understanding of farmers." {{NEWS }}

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