SUPERMARKET giant Asda has expanded its partnership with family-run Scottish business Benzies Produce.
The Aberdeenshire-based business has been the main supplier of carrots to all 62 Asda stores in Scotland for more than 16 years but has now extended its deal with the supermarket.
In addition to supplying all of the core carrots in Asda outlets across the country, Bensies Produce will now also supply more than 500 tonnes of parsnips to the chain, totalling more than 7500 tonnes of veg per year.
The Turiff-based business employs a staff of 100 people and specialises in growing and packaging root vegetables.
Phillip Benzie, owner of Benzies Produce, said: “Everything we supply is locally grown, harvested and packed, so it’s fantastic to see such a large retailer supporting local farmers and in turn creating jobs for people in the area.
“We also have a wind turbine powering the site, which exports excess energy to the grid, promoting a more sustainable supply chain.”
Ashley Connolly, Asda local buying manager for Scotland, added: “We’re proud to be bringing Scottish customers the very best, locally grown vegetables to our shelves.
“We know Asda customers are looking for the freshest, highest-quality produce, and by collaborating with local growers and packers like Benzies, we can ensure that stock is on our shelves quicker and with less travel time than imported produce.”
