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Lidl GB has confirmed it will be offering farmers financial incentives to move into egg farming.

With the industry facing ‘considerable pressure' over the past year, the supermarket is calling on other retailers to take similar steps to encourage farmers back into the egg sector.

Long-term contracts

Existing and new farmers are being offered an additional investment on top of market rates, supported by long-term contracts as part of a guaranteed payback deal.

Through these contracts, farmers will be given the 'security and confidence needed to invest in and expand their existing businesses, helping to provide greater returns in the long-term.'

British eggs

Martin Kottbauer, chief trading officer at Lidl GB, said the 'easy option' would have been to source elsewhere, but added ensuring the 'long-term sustainability of the British egg sector' was important. 

"We are firmly committed to the long-standing relationships we have with our British suppliers, and our commitment to sourcing 100 per cent fresh shell British eggs."

The retailer is also supporting existing suppliers, and is set to invest an additional £40 million compared to last year.

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