Sainsbury’s has deepened its relationship with meat and poultry giant Cranswick, with a new 10-year supply deal.
Cranswick will supply all of Sainsbury’s British pork, sausages, premium bacon and gammon and cooked meats under the agreement.
Longer-term contracts and more financial stability will also be provided for the 170 farmers who supply Cranswick via the Sainsbury’s Pork Producer Group.
The two companies said this would give farmers the reassurance needed to invest in farms, factories and procedures, building resilience for the future.
The partnership was also said to improve welfare standards of the By Sainsbury’s British pork range beyond Red Tractor standards, “while still ensuring great value for customers”.
Taste the Difference pork will remain at the same RSPCA Assured standard as it has been for 17 years, Sainsbury’s added.
“This 10-year partnership with Cranswick means that we are able to place a bigger focus on animal welfare, financial security for our farmers and sustainable production of our pork range; all while protecting value for customers,” said Rhian Bartlett, Sainsbury’s chief commercial officer.
“Long-term partnerships are not only key to the success of Sainsbury’s, but also to the success and stability of the food industry we work in. They’re something we continue to prioritise as a business.”
It is estimated Sainsbury’s will invest £50m to implement its new production standards by 2030, with an additional £11m being invested by Cranswick to help build new sheds and housing for pigs.
The move includes direct investment in flexible farrowing accommodation – the area in which pigs are housed during the birthing process – which will provide extra space for sows and piglets.
The introduction of AI technology will also allow for 24/7 monitoring of the animals and inform improvements to welfare.
“The purpose of the new partnership is to provide a total supply chain approach delivering a robust and differentiated consumer offer across British pork related categories including fresh joints and steaks, sausages, cooked meats and premium bacon and gammon,” said Jim Brisby, Cranswick chief commercial officer.
Bartlett added: “There is an ever-evolving relationship between retailers, farmers, and processors, but we hope this news serves as a good example of what is possible when people come together in the food system.”
This is the latest change by Sainsbury’s to invest in British farming, animal welfare and agricultural sustainability and follows other moves including sourcing 100% free-range woodland eggs, lowering chicken stocking density and introducing a beef range with a lower carbon footprint.
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