Aldi Backs British Berry Season As Sweeter, Bigger Raspberries Hit Shelves

Aldi shoppers are set for a sweeter taste of summer as the retailer switches to 100% British-grown fresh raspberries across all UK stores.

British-grown raspberries began arriving in Aldi stores from 27 May, marking the supermarket’s seasonal move to fully British fresh raspberries following the start of the domestic raspberry season.

Aldi’s berry suppliers are forecasting an especially strong crop this year, with raspberries expected to be both sweeter and larger than usual. The cooler spring is said to have allowed the fruit to ripen more slowly, helping to enhance flavour development.

The retailer is also predicting a 15% year-on-year increase in raspberry sales, following a strong performance last summer. Aldi sold 1,900 tonnes of raspberries between June and September last year, equivalent to almost 12 million punnets.

Julie Ashfield, chief commercial officer at Aldi UK, said: “We expect our raspberries to taste better than ever this season, showcasing the fantastic quality of British produce available across Aldi stores.

“We’re proud to work with British farmers and growers across the country while helping customers enjoy more great British produce.”

The supermarket said it continues to work closely with British growers to bring shoppers high-quality produce at strong value.

As part of its wider support for British-grown fruit and vegetables, Aldi has teamed up with farmer and TV personality Harriet Cowan to encourage more shoppers to choose produce grown in the UK.

New research commissioned by Aldi found that while 80% of shoppers say supporting British farmers is important to them, only 27% actively consider whether fruit and vegetables are grown in Britain when deciding what to buy.

The research also found that many shoppers are unaware that vegetables including cucumbers, courgettes and aubergines can be grown in the UK.

Harriet Cowan said: “I’m passionate about highlighting the brilliant work British farmers do to bring high-quality food to our tables.

“I’ve loved teaming up with Aldi to learn more about the fruit and veg we grow here in the UK and to shine a light on what’s in season.”

To help shoppers make the most of British produce, Cowan has also selected a series of seasonal recipes for Aldi customers.