Lidl Commits £30 Billion to British Farming and Food Supply Over Five Years

Lidl GB has announced a major investment of £30 billion in British food and farming over the next five years. The retailer previously committed £15 billion but exceeded that by £6 billion in 2024 - and is now doubling down on its support for UK agriculture.

This investment will focus on long-term partnerships with farmers, growers, and food producers across the UK, with emphasis on fresh produce, meat, and poultry. The aim is to support local supply chains, reinforce national food security, and provide a stable foundation for British agriculture to thrive.

Highlights of the Investment:

• Fresh produce standards: All British fruit and veg suppliers will be required to meet full LEAF Marque certification. From next year, Lidl will begin displaying the LEAF logo on packs of homegrown produce.

• Beef sector boost: A £1.5 billion investment into British beef aims to improve herd performance, reduce emissions, and strengthen profitability for livestock farmers.

• Protecting water and natural resources: Lidl will back water catchment projects in key regions, including Norfolk, the Southwest, and the Wye and Usk river basins - supporting efforts to improve water quality and protect habitats.

• Backing innovation and sustainability: New digital tools, such as farm data apps, will help livestock farmers track carbon footprints, grazing patterns, and overall herd health - supporting a shift towards regenerative practices.

According to Lidl’s commercial leadership, the move is designed to give certainty to more than 650 British suppliers, ensuring they can scale, innovate, and invest in sustainable growth.

The UK government has welcomed the announcement as a clear show of confidence in British food production, praising Lidl’s efforts to strengthen rural communities and long-term farming resilience.