To mark British Food Fortnight (22 Sept-7 Oct) Southern Co-op is throwing the spotlight on its products supplied by local producers.
The independent retail society has nearly 200 local suppliers based in 13 southern England counties whose produce make up its Local Flavours range. The range is available in 196 of its local stores, with a varied number of local products available in each store.
Simon Eastwood, chief operating officer for retail, said: “Our Local Flavours range is a really important aspect to our retail stores and last year we celebrated its tenth anniversary.
“It was first launched on the Isle of Wight as we wanted to support some of our amazing local food and drink producers. Today, we currently have nearly 1,900 different types of local products sitting on our shelves.
“Knowing where our food comes from is so important and so is supporting our local economy. Our local producers can also bring the food alive to help us understand exactly what goes into the food on our plates.”
The Local Flavours range includes seasonal fruit and vegetables, fish and meat, cheeses, chutney, bakery goods and beers. Popular products from the range include those from brewer Hall & Woodhouse from Blandford St Mary, and frozen ready meal company Cook Trading from Sittingbourne.
