ICA has announced its plans to source an increased quantity of locally grown tomatoes. This initiative, set to kick off later this year, involves a substantial investment in a new greenhouse facility located west of Stockholm, showcasing a commitment to sustainable agriculture and meeting consumer demands for homegrown food products.
Key Takeaways
- Local Production Expansion: ICA plans to augment its supply of Swedish-grown tomatoes through a new 10ha greenhouse facility in Frövi, near Lindesberg, in partnership with Svenska Odlarlaget, the Swedish Growers Association.
- Sustainable Practices: The facility will utilize waste energy from nearby industries for heating, emphasizing environmentally friendly operations.
- Significant Output: Expected to produce 8,000 tonnes of tomatoes annually, the first harvest is scheduled for autumn 2024, aiming to enhance Sweden’s self-sufficiency in tomato production.
- Consumer Demand for Local Produce: A survey conducted by ICA and LRF in May 2023 highlighted strong consumer preference for locally produced food, with motivations ranging from reducing import dependence to strengthening national preparedness.
- Commitment to Swedish Agriculture: ICA’s initiative reflects a broader goal to increase the share of Swedish-grown vegetables in its assortment, with a 5 percent increase achieved over the past year and around 60 percent of its vegetable range currently sourced from Sweden.
Enhancing Local Supply and Sustainability
Eric Lundberg, CEO of ICA Sweden, emphasized the retailer’s dedication to strengthening the Swedish food supply through this investment. By increasing the availability of Swedish-grown tomatoes, ICA aims to support sustainable agricultural practices, reduce environmental impact, and fulfill the rising consumer demand for locally produced foods.
Leveraging Waste Energy for Heating
The innovative use of waste energy from nearby industries for heating the greenhouse is a testament to ICA’s commitment to sustainability. This approach not only reduces the facility’s carbon footprint but also sets a precedent for environmentally conscious production practices in the agricultural sector.
Meeting Consumer Demand
The initiative is in direct response to consumer preferences for locally produced foods, as evidenced by the Sifo survey. By focusing on local sourcing, ICA aims to reduce Sweden’s reliance on imported tomatoes and strengthen the country’s preparedness in food supply, aligning with consumer expectations for sustainability and local production.
A Step Towards Self-Sufficiency
ICA’s investment is a significant step towards increasing Sweden’s self-sufficiency in fresh produce. With plans to supply Swedish-grown tomatoes year-round, the retailer is not only meeting consumer demand but also contributing to the national goal of enhanced food security.
ICA’s investment in locally grown tomatoes represents a multifaceted approach to addressing consumer demands, environmental sustainability, and national self-sufficiency in food production. By leveraging innovative agricultural practices and sustainable energy sources, ICA is setting a new standard for the retail and agricultural sectors in Sweden, underscoring the importance of local sourcing in building a resilient and sustainable food supply chain.
