October 22, 2007

Sainbury's to pay more to British pork producers

The British supermarket chain Sainbury's announced it is increasing the price it pays to its British pork suppliers in response to farmers campaign for supermarkets to raise their prices.

The move is expected to inject GBP 5 million (US$10.26 million)   into the industry.

According to Stewart Houston, chairman of the National Pig Association, "pig producers are under severe pressure as a result of the doubling of feed prices and foot and mouth restrictions.

Sainbury's pork buyer, Matthew Johnson said the company raised prices to demonstrate its support for the British pig industry

Sainsbury's move follows the announcement by another major retail chain, Morrisons that it would be selling only British pork once its imported stock are completely sold.