Farmer’s initiative puts local produce online
Retailer can source direct from producers
July 3 2003
Farmers have launched a virtual marketplace which aims to help UK retailers source local and regional produce directly.
The National Farmers Union has set up the NFU SourceDirect website up in association with online retailer BigBarn, which allows consumers to buy directly from independent producers.
More than 50 farmers and growers have signed up to feature their wholesale produce on the site, offering goods ranging from sausages to yoghurt. Buyers can source using map-based search criteria.
The NFU believes the website will appeal to smaller retail grocery chains as well as restaurants and pubs wanting to feature local produce on their menu. NFU voce president Michael Parks said: “More and more consumers are coming to recognise and value the quality of fresh, local produce and demand for local retailers and caterers to provide it is growing.”
The website is at www.nfusourcedirect.com.
