Belgium: Growers supply vegetables to Delhaize directly

Last week Belgian retailer Delhaize introduced a new project in Kortrijk. Two growers are allowed to supply the store directly. The experiment will run until early next year. Stephan and Christophe Bosschaert from Wevelgem and Luc Coghe from Heule are now delivering goods to three outlets. “By doing this we are trying to serve customers asking for local produce,” says Roel Dekelver of Delhaize. “Also, we like to stimulate local economy. So far, we’re taking about leeks, cauliflower, red and white cabbage.”

According to Roel, the long-term goal is to introduce the project nationwide. “We are trying to find out if this is the way to go, and if this is really want consumers want. If so, the project is a success. The growers are glad to participate and our customers seem very positive. Of course, we don’t know if it’s feasible yet.”

If other retailers will follow the example? “That of course we can’t predict. But Delhaize’s precedent is no accident; we have been supporting local produce and development for years.”