Shropshire farmers squeezed by the supermarkets

Shropshire farmers are still being squeezed by "questionable" supermarket supply tactics, effectively changing when the seasons were, the industry's union warned today.

John Mercer, NFU regional director, has today repeated the farmers' demands for the Government to bring in an adjudicator to protect growers and make sure that they are getting a fair deal for their produce.

He was speaking after supermarkets were accused of 'fixing' the seasons and demanding summer fruit and vegetables in the spring – creating all sorts of supply problems for farmers.

Some say they cannot keep up with the demand and are being hit when supermarkets cut prices – and pass the cost on to them.

One Shropshire farmer, who did not wish to be named, said: "Price drops are pushed on to the primary producers but price rises are not necessarily."

Mr Mercer said he was concerned to hear of reports that growers were being squeezed by supermarkets and questioned some of the tactics being used by retailers.

He said: "Shropshire farmers continue to suffer from unexpected costs by grocery retailers and we continue to hear of suppliers being squeezed ever tighter by the major supermarkets, damaging the long-term prospects of primary producers, as well as the interests of consumers.

"We have been pushing the Government to bring in a groceries adjudicator so it can police and monitor the relationship between farmers and the supermarkets to benefit the industry.

"Now the Government must be true to its words and deliver an adjudicator to end unfair supply chain practices among the big supermarkets. The NFU is also keen to ensure the watchdog has teeth."

Rob Alderson, Shropshire NFU chairman, said the industry was trying to ensure farmers and supermarkets worked together to ensure a fair price.

He added it was important for buyers to show support by using farmers' markets, local butchers and greengrocers when possible.