Farmers in Northern Ireland demonstrated at an Asda supermarket in Larne, voicing their concerns over the retailer’s alleged practice of sidelining local produce during the Christmas season. Specifically, the farmers claim that Asda is replacing locally sourced potatoes with cheaper options imported from Great Britain, which they argue undermines their livelihoods. Farmer Stephen Christie expressed that such a move would significantly challenge farming families during a critical sales period, emphasizing that local agriculture is well-prepared to meet seasonal demand.
The protest drew attention from local political figures, including East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson, who echoed the farmers’ grievances. Wilson criticized Asda for opting to source potatoes from England, which he contended contradicts the supermarket’s pledge to support local suppliers. He remarked that excluding local farmers, especially during the festive season—a peak market time—raises serious questions about Asda’s commitment to local sourcing, potentially jeopardizing the sustainability of the agricultural sector in the region.
While farmers argue that the switch to cheaper imports undermines their business, Asda maintains that the “overwhelming majority” of its potato sourcing in Northern Ireland is from local growers. The supermarket acknowledged the frustrations being voiced by farmers regarding imported produce in their Christmas promotions. Despite its claims of supporting local agriculture, Asda’s actions have prompted concerns about the risks posed to local farming sustainability and long-term viability if such practices continue.
Christie emphasized that local farmers work throughout the year to prepare for the busy Christmas season and should benefit from the market during this time. He expressed disappointment in Asda’s decision-making, stating that the focus should be on supporting local produce, especially given the context of the current agricultural climate. The farmers believe that purchasing from local sources would not only benefit their livelihoods but would also align with public sentiment regarding the importance of local agriculture.
In response to the protests, Asda released a statement asserting its commitment to supporting local producers, insisting that a majority of its potato sales in the region originate from Northern Ireland. The spokesperson reiterated that the introduction of an imported vegetable offer for Christmas was intended to assist families during a challenging time. Nevertheless, they acknowledged the farmers’ concerns and indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue with the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) to address the situation.
The farmers remain adamant that their exclusion from supermarket shelves is detrimental to both their businesses and the broader community. They anticipate that ongoing discussions with Asda and local representatives may lead to more favorable outcomes for local growers. The protest underscores larger issues in the agricultural sector regarding sustainability, local sourcing, and the critical role of supermarkets in supporting regional economies, especially during crucial trading periods like Christmas.
