A regional co-operative is praising local suppliers across the south of England who have helped to ensure shoppers continue to get a supply of eggs during the pandemic.
Southern Co-op’s sales of local eggs rose by 50% during the lockdown period in May against the typical rate of demand.
The regional, independent co-operative, sells the eggs as part of its Local Flavours range which celebrates regional produce in its retail stores across the south of England.
Local egg suppliers are Beechwood Eggs, in Thatcham, Berkshire; Stokes Farm, in Wokingham, Berkshire; Black Dog Eggs, in Washford Pyne, Devon; Westacott Eggs in Petrockstow, Devon; Holmansbridge in Barcombe, East Sussex; Claytons Eggs, in Romsey, Hampshire; Brownrigg, in Godshill, Isle of Wight; Curd and Cure, in Staplehurst, Kent; Coastal Farm Eggs, in Canterbury, Kent; Simons Free Range Eggs, in Hookwood, Surrey; Rookery Eggs from Langmeads of Faversham, in Flansham, West Sussex; and The Good Egg Company, in Hilperton, Wiltshire.
Matt Elliott, Retail Buying & Services Manager who looks after Local Flavours at Southern Co-op, said: “Our local suppliers have done a great job helping us fill the gap when eggs were in short supply at retail stores across the country.
“Over the recent lockdown period we have seen a spike in sales of local eggs and the support we have seen across our suppliers has been fantastic. We would urge our customers to continue to support local suppliers and shop locally.”
In Hampshire, a major campaign has been launched aimed at supporting local producers and independent retailers as lockdown eases.
Hampshire Fare, a not-for-profit organisation which support local food, drink and craft producers, is asking communities to ‘Stay Loyal Stay Local’ and encouraging people to stay loyal to those relationships they have formed with local independents, producers and suppliers.
Tracy Nash, Commercial Manager at Hampshire Fare, said: “This campaign is a rallying cry. It is a celebration of the brilliant service people have received from independent retailers and local producers during lockdown. More importantly, however, the objective of our campaign is to ask: why should that experience of going into a local store, being looked after, receiving personal service, perhaps being provided with home delivery, end with lockdown easing?”