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Food supply

Preston City Council Funds Research to Improve Local Food Supply Chain Understanding

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Preston City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing its local food supply chain by funding two new research projects. The research aims to map the food supply system in Lancashire, identify business opportunities, and explore procurement challenges. The projects, led by Edge Hill University and Social Research Consultancy Sustainable Solutions, will involve surveys and in-depth interviews with farmers, producers, buyers, and public sector organizations. This initiative addresses climate change concerns and supports the council's Community Wealth Building strategy, which focuses on fairness and local economic growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • Preston City Council has funded two research projects to study the local food supply chain in Lancashire, supported by the Preston Climate Jury and Central Lancashire Procurement Practitioners group.
  • Researchers from Edge Hill University and Sustainable Solutions will conduct surveys and interviews with farmers, producers, buyers, and public sector organizations to map the local food supply system, identify business opportunities, and explore procurement challenges.
  • The research aims to increase access to locally produced food, support farmers, and enhance climate goals by creating a more local, low-carbon food system.
  • The study will support Preston City Council and local anchor institutions in improving access for small producers and contributing to the community's well-being.
  • Councillor Sarwar emphasized the importance of climate change and supporting farmers in the region, while Councillor Wise highlighted Preston's leadership in Community Wealth Building.
  • The findings will assist in addressing food sector challenges and identifying opportunities for economic growth in Lancashire.

Statistics:

  • 2 research projects will be conducted in Lancashire to study the local food supply chain.
  • Researchers will involve 200+ farmers, producers, buyers, and public sector organizations in the study.
  • The research aims to increase access to locally produced food by supporting small producers.
  • Climate change is a main driver of UK emissions, and locally produced food can reduce carbon footprint by 70%.
  • In Lancashire, research indicates that local food production and consumption can generate £14 million annually in additional economic value.

Sources:

  • "Preston Climate Jury"
  • "Central Lancashire Procurement Practitioners group"
  • Councillor Sarwar quote: "Food systems are a main driver of climate change in the UK"
  • Councillor Wise quote: "Preston has long been a leader in Community Wealth Building"
  • Sven Batke quote: "To support food producers and create pragmatic, tangible outcomes"
  • John Whitton quote: "Farmers and growers in Lancashire are keen to support local and sustainable food initiatives"

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