Foodservice supplier said it is committed to creating resilient supply chains as climate and extreme weather make it ‘increasingly difficult to grow food’
Foodservice supplier Fresh Direct is partnering with three of its key suppliers on regenerative farming projects to help strengthen the resilience of its supply chain.
Working with regenerative farming consultancy Regen Future Co, the company is piloting nature and biodiversity projects with FreshGro, Len Wright Salads and Barfoots.
Projects include a 300-metre diverse hedgerow and wildflower meadow, new wildlife habitats and a new freshwater ecosystem to help to boost biodiversity.
They have been designed as locally appropriate interventions based on regenerative principles, as defined by LEAF marque, as climate change makes food production increasingly unpredictable.
“Climate and extreme weather are making it increasingly difficult to grow food, and we’re committed to partnering with our suppliers to build resilient supply chains and secure the future of food,” said head of European sustainability at Fresh Direct’s parent company, Sysco GB, Pete Statham.
“Our collaborations with three key growers aim to demonstrate initiatives that can improve commercial farming for biodiversity, soil health and the climate,” he added.
“If successful, this will allow us to share insights and learnings to enhance sustainability and resilience throughout the supply chain. It’s an opportunity to collaborate to help build a constructive dialogue around sustainable farming in the foodservice supply chain that supports nature alongside food production.”
It comes as the company has achieved its ambition to source all contracted British produce from LEAF Marque-accredited growers.
LEAF ensures growers are independently verified against a robust whole‑farm sustainability standard, which helps create continuous improvements in soil health, biodiversity, water and energy management.
