In a new ground breaking scheme, South West farmers, processors and retailers are collaborating to create an efficient, cost effective and traceable supply chain for cows when they re-enter the food chain. The parties involved, Milk Link, St Merryn Meat and Tesco, believe that by working in partnership substantial benefits will result and will provide a model for the rest of the country to follow.
The scheme will provide a simple route to market for Milk Link's dairy farmers seeking to effectively and efficiently sell their assured animals. Whilst at the same time the simplifying and shortening of the supply chain will improve animal welfare.
"Milk Link members will need to make just one phone call to arrange collection on set days from their area. The process will make the marketing of their farm assured cows easier and more cost effective", commented Mark Brooking, Membership Director for Milk Link.
For the meat processor, having a consistent supply of farm assured cattle is essential for them to be able to open up new markets for a product that has not been marketed since 1996. John Dracup, St Merryn Foods Procurement Manager said, "Simple supply chains have got to be the most effective in keeping costs down whilst guaranteeing the all important matters of quality and traceability".
From the retail perspective Tesco want to ensure that the meat is produced to the highest standards and that they work with their existing UK suppliers. "Milk Link is already part of our supply chain in the dairy sector so working together with them to provide farm assured meat is logical", commented Michelle Waterman, Tesco Agricultural Manager.
Commenting on the whole initiative, Jeremy Pope, Chairman of English Farming and Food Partnerships stated, "I am delighted that the supply chain had co-operated like this, it is exactly what the industry needs."
