NFU President challenges retailers to show leadership on food security

British retailers have a reputation for being world leaders and need to show that leadership now to ensure a stable and secure long-term future for food production, NFU President Peter Kendall said today.

Speaking at the IGD annual convention in London, Mr Kendall said it was important retailers looked at the long-term nature of supply relationships so they could form a strong partnership with producers to tackle the challenges to food production posed by climate change and growing populations.

He said: "We are part of a massive, successful British food industry which delivers £80 billion of gross added value to the economy, represents 3.6 million jobs, and constitutes the biggest industry in our manufacturing sector.

"But the global challenges we face – climate change, water depletion and population growth – are enormous. We are moving into an era where security of supply is going to be a critical factor. British retailers have a reputation for being world leaders and I want you to show leadership now by developing a sustainable supply chain, based on long-term relationships, delivering what is, in the end, the key for consumers – stable and secure food supplies."