Asda is stocking apples sourced locally in its 11 Kent stores following a successful trial with strawberries last year.

The retailer is working with Kent County Council’s Produced in Kent initiative to promote the apples. The fruit will be packed in polybags featuring the words ‘Local apples for local people’ and the Produced in Kent logo.

According to Rob Weaver, from Kent CC’s Economic Development Unit, buyers were initially sceptical producers could offer a sustainable source but a trial of Kent strawberries in three stores last year convinced them.

“This year all Asda’s Kent stores are selling local strawberries from June to October,” he said.

Budgens’ new Hawkhurst store, which opens next month, will also be supporting Kentish apples.