By the first half of 2025, all Tesco fresh chicken will be grown with 20% more space than the industry standard. The retailer said it would move to a 30kg per square metre stocking density, following other retailers including Co-Op and Lidl that in the past few months have made the same commitment.
Tesco said it would “invest in its existing supply base” to help with the transition.
Separate to its support in transitioning to higher welfare systems, Tesco has already committed to an additional £12m in financial support for its British chicken farmers and suppliers over the course of 2024/25.
Natalie Smith, Head of Sustainable Agriculture & Fisheries at Tesco said: “We know how much our customers care about animal welfare, and we’re committed to improving standards across our ranges wherever possible, while maintaining great value and quality for customers. That’s why over the course of the next year, all our core fresh chicken will be grown to higher welfare standards, with over 20% more space than the industry standard.
“This move reaffirms our commitment to British agriculture and is a significant step-up in welfare standards for the poultry industry in the UK. Thanks to this move, customers can continue to make better, more sustainable choices while still enjoying the same great value.”