Waitrose announces egg price increase to counter feed costs

Retailer Waitrose has increased the price paid to its 119 Columbian Blacktail egg producers to help them cope with rising feed costs.

Conventional egg producers will get an additional 8p/dozen, while organic producers will receive a 10p/dozen rise, effective from 13 August.

The supermarket says the price increase will help producers deal with increasing volatility in the feed market caused by rising soya and wheat prices.

“We pioneered the producer group model under which we work very closely with our farmers, ensuring the prices we pay take into account costs of production,” said Heather Jenkins, Waitrose director of agricultural strategy.

“We believe it’s vital to pay producers prices that bolster the sustainability of their businesses as they face rising costs,” she added.

The supermarket said it would keep prices paid to producers in other sectors under constant review and continue to work closely with suppliers.