Scots poultry farmers win deal to supply Aldi

Three poultry farmers in Scotland have won a contract to supply free-range chicken to discounter Aldi’s Scottish stores, in a deal worth £400,000/year.

The supermarket has placed an order for 2,500 birds a week from Robert Morris, in Strathaven, Kenny Gilchrest, in Kilmaurs, and John Medlock, from Laurencekirk (pictured with son, Michael). The three farms have joined to form MGM poultry.

NFU Scotland’s food chain manager, Kylie Barclay, welcomed the boost to the Scottish poultry sector, saying Aldi had provided support during a “turbulent period” for producers.

“This deal highlights that consumer demand for Scottish chicken is genuine and that there are good reasons why all retailers should have fresh Scottish chicken on their shelves.”

In May, the Scottish government released a survey that indicated poultry sales were growing three times faster than in England and Wales, and consumers were willing to pay a premium for Scottish-branded chicken.

Mr Morris, one of the farmers to supply Aldi through MGM poultry, said the new contract was a “huge boost” for the sector. “It’s exciting to see our product on the shelves across stores in Scotland.”

Aldi said the chicken would be sold whole at £3.29/kg.