Costcutter has launched a new directory to help its retailers work more closely with local suppliers.

The Direct supplier Directory, which will be published quarterly, features more than 550 suppliers across the UK.

The symbol group said it had created it as part of its ongoing ‘Proud to be Local’ campaign to help retailers meet increased demand from shoppers for local produce.

“There is an increasing demand for locally produced goods and Costcutter has an enviable regional supply network,” said trading manager Richard Nicholson. “This new directory puts all of these suppliers into one easy-to-use document, allowing retailers to identify local suppliers in their area who they may wish to source from.”

The directory is backed by new point-of-sale material, including shelf talkers and shelf-edge strips, as well as a website that will be launched later this year.

“This gives our retailers the chance to support their local community and economy, while they also benefit from the simplicity we have created and it can all be centrally billed,” Nicholson added.