Aldi has announced plans to offer quicker payments for small produce growers and suppliers to support British producers.
The move follows a period of dry weather across the UK that has placed additional strain on growers. The coming summer is predicted to be hotter than normal and the initiative is intended to help smaller suppliers manage cashflow challenges.
All suppliers with a turnover of under £5m will be offered new, quicker payment terms for the remainder of 2025.
The changes will take effect immediately and will mean payment terms are reduced from the standard 30 days to 14 days.
This forms part of the discounter’s commitment to long-term, fair relationships with British growers.
Eligible suppliers have been invited to apply for the scheme.
“We know smaller growers are under real pressure – from a dry spring to rising input costs – and we want to do what we can to help,” said Aldi buying MD Julie Ashfield. “These shorter payment terms are a small, practical step to give them quicker access to cash and a bit more flexibility as the season progresses.”
The retailer said it was committed to supporting British farming with fair trading practices and upholding high food safety and animal welfare standards.
The move was welcomed by Tom Bradshaw, president of the NFU, who said: “It’s encouraging to see Aldi recognising the strain on smaller suppliers, and its commitment to offer faster payments is a positive step towards building more resilient supply chains and ensuring farmers can invest in sustainable food production.
“We welcome any steps that help ease the financial pressures British growers are facing, particularly after a challenging spring.”
An industry insider hailed it as a “great initiative”. However, they warned most suppliers would likely have a larger turnover than £5m and therefore not be eligible for the scheme.
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