March 24, 2025

 

UK firms Sainsbury's and Cranswick announce US$78.9 million partnership to improve swine welfare

Sainsbury's and Cranswick have entered a 10-year partnership aimed at raising swine welfare standards and strengthening the sustainability of the British pork supply chain.

 

Under the agreement, all of Sainsbury's British pork products, including sausages, premium bacon, gammon, and cooked meats, will be supplied through Cranswick. The partnership will see a total investment of GBP 61 million (US$78.9 million) in farming infrastructure and welfare improvements.

 

A key focus of the agreement is enhancing animal welfare standards beyond industry-recommended Red Tractor pork standards. Sainsbury's will continue to maintain the RSPCA Assured standard for its Taste the Difference pork, a certification it has upheld for 17 years.

 

The investment will support the introduction of flexible farrowing accommodation, designed to give sows and piglets more space and improved conditions during birth. AI technology will also be implemented to enable continuous monitoring of animal welfare, using data to drive further improvements.

 

Sainsbury's has committed GBP 50 million (US$64.7 million) towards implementing these higher standards by 2030, while Cranswick will invest GBP 11 million (US$14.2 million) to fund new sheds and improved pig housing.

 

Sainsbury's Chief Commercial Officer, Rhian Bartlett, said the partnership would focus on animal welfare, financial security for farmers, and the sustainable production of pork, while maintaining affordability for customers.

 

The deal will provide long-term stability for the 170 farmers in the Sainsbury's Pork Producer Group, allowing them to invest in their farms, processing systems, and factory operations. The agreement also aims to improve resilience in the British pork supply chain, offering financial security to farmers over the next decade.

 

In addition to welfare improvements, Sainsbury's and Cranswick have committed to reducing the environmental impact of pork production. Their sustainability targets include achieving net zero for Taste the Difference pork by 2029 and for fresh pork by 2030. They are also conducting trials to reduce the environmental impact of soya feed, which plays a key role in pork production.

 

Cranswick's Chief Commercial Officer, Jim Brisby, said the partnership would ensure a secure supply chain fit for the future, supporting improved welfare standards, achieving sustainability targets, and providing fair returns for the 170 farmers involved.

 

NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson said the agreement aligns with calls for better supply chain relations, ensuring long-term security for producers and supporting them in transitioning to higher welfare standards and achieving net zero targets.

 

She also noted that following Tesco's recent announcement of long-term support for British pig producers, this partnership represents another significant milestone for the sector.

 

- New Food