Fruit & Veg Shortages? Not at your local greengrocers

If you’ve been to your local supermarket lately, you will have seen the result of so-called food shortages.

Supermarket shelves are laying empty, with signs up stating that you cannot buy more than three cucumbers at a time (I mean, I personally don’t buy that many 👀). The media are reporting that poor weather conditions, as well as Brexit, has caused dire situations for retail buyers.

But take a stroll down your local high street or market, and things look a little bit different..

Your local greengrocer is fully stocked.

According to Paul Semple, manager at Lloyds Greengrocer, in Bristol, said his footfall is up 10 per cent, with new customers telling him they ‘can’t believe how stocked up’ his shop is.

But, why?

There are a number of factors, but simply put, these stores buy local, and pay their suppliers fairly.

Yes, many independent shopkeepers have still had to raise their prices in line with the cost, but they are happy to pay this if it means keeping their shelves stocked for customers.

Callum at CJ’s Fruit & Veg, a market stall based at Norwich Market, have stated that they have not seen shortages, and they have been able to buy everything they normally would. He said, “The prices have gone up but this can happen with cold weather affecting growers crop levels, with warmer weather coming in spring months we should notice these prices dropping back down!”

In addition, many independent businesses stock British, seasonal produce that is not as greatly affected by the shortages.

So, the message is clear – support your local farmers and independent businesses, and they will support you.