Asda has renamed International Produce Ltd - its direct sourcing arm - to International Procurement and Logistics Ltd to reflect the company’s growth outside fresh produce procurement.

Known as IPL, the company was formed in 2004 to supply Asda with fresh produce, but its remit has been expanded to include cheese, fresh pasta, pâté, canned meats, wine, bacon, houseplants and flowers.

IPL is now the single biggest importer of produce into the UK.

The name change reflected its broader category expertise, said Asda. “IPL has expanded its remit in recent years so we wanted to amend its name to reflect this,” said a spokeswoman.