Tesco announces the relaunching of Sustainable Pig Group with Cranswick partnership

UK – Tesco has relaunched its Sustainable Pig Group (TSPG) in collaboration with pork processor Cranswick to support British pig farmers and enhance production methods across the UK.

The initiative, created in partnership with Cranswick, Tesco’s long-term supplier, includes farms of various sizes and production methods. 

Tesco estimates the scheme could generate a value of at least US$832 million over its first three years.

Initially, the group will supply Tesco’s Finest fresh pork, with plans to expand its reach threefold within three years to include all core fresh pork and sausages. 

If achieved, this expansion would position TSPG as one of the largest farming producer groups in the UK.

Farmers participating in the group will receive payments based on a combination of production costs and market prices. 

Tesco stated this model aims to provide price stability and encourage long-term investment among producers.

This relaunch follows Tesco’s 18 months of increased support for the British pork sector, during which the retailer raised its use of British pork in sausages, bacon, pork, and gammon by 20%.

TSPG will also serve as a platform for collaboration among Tesco, its suppliers, and farmers to improve animal welfare, innovation, quality, and sustainability standards within the pork industry.

One of the welfare-focused goals is to increase the number of farms using enhanced farrowing systems and to reduce stocking densities on participating farms.

Adam Couch, CEO of Cranswick, welcomed Tesco’s commitment to supporting British pig farming, emphasizing the group’s potential to drive sustainability and improved welfare.

Ashwin Prasad, Tesco’s chief commercial officer, mentioned the challenges faced by British pig farmers and noted that the cost-of-production mechanism and bonus incentives are intended to help farmers invest in welfare and sustainability improvements.

Lizzie Wilson, CEO of the National Pig Association, expressed support for Tesco’s initiative, noting its emphasis on securing a sustainable supply of British pork. 

She also called on other retailers to implement similar commitments to ensure the long-term viability of pig farms.

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