The newly merged ESG Drysdale, made up of two of Scotland’s largest vegetable growers, is to supply Asda Scotland stores with 23 tonnes of locally grown asparagus for the first time – including three new lines.
The East of Scotland Growers (ESG) and R&K Drysdale merger was finalised earlier this year to form ESG Drysdale. ESG has had a relationship with Asda for the past five years, and this year, the newly established company will supply three new lines of asparagus harvested from its 15 farms which span 45,000 acres across Scotland.
The new products include 150g and 300g asparagus bundles, as well as 125g asparagus tips within Asda’s Extra Special range.
Alex MacArthur, National Account Manager at ESG Drysdale, said: “It’s fantastic that Asda has such strong confidence in Scottish farming, and the produce we supply from our farms in Scotland is a fresher option for customers than the products flown in from abroad, as the time from being harvested to being packaged on the shelves is significantly reduced.
“Using local growers and suppliers is also a much more sustainable process of supplying vegetables as the produce doesn’t have to be imported in from thousands of miles away. The transportation of local vegetables creates a much smaller environmental impact with a lower carbon footprint.”
Ashley Connolly, Local Buying Manager for Asda Scotland, added: “We’re really proud to be bringing Scottish customers three new lines of locally grown and packed asparagus to our shelves. We know our customers demand fresh quality produce and by working with local farmers at ESG Drysdale we are getting stock into our stores quicker and with less travel time.”
