A STUDY from the Southern Co-op has revealed a higher demand for local products in Hampshire.

A new study has revealed that shoppers are purchasing 40% more local products than 5 years ago.

The study was released by Southern Co-op as it celebrates a milestone anniversary for its local food and drink range - 15 years of Local Flavours.

As part of the celebrations, the Local Flavours team will be paying a visit to 5 Hampshire producers in May and June to recognise the hard work they have done to make it possible, including Laverstoke Park Farm.

Southern Co-op has worked with Laverstoke Park for over a decade.

The farm is spread over 2,500 acres of land near Overton and is owned and run by ex-racing driver and Formula One World Champion Jody Scheckter.

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Alexandra Munday, Sales & Marketing Executive at Laverstoke Park Farm, said: “We have been supplying Southern Co-op for over 10 years with our produce and in particular our Organic Buffalo Mozzarella.

“They are a friendly team to work with and we have great pleasure in telling our local customers that they can find our produce in the convenience of a trusted, local store such as Southern Co-op.

“As our brand grows and we widen our range, we hope they will continue to grow with us!”

The Local Flavours team will also visit ChalkStream Foods, The Meon Spirit Company with Hill Farm Juice, Curry on Wheels, and Claytons Eggs.

The Local Flavours range was introduced in 2007 and supports farmers and producers, bringing the best local food and drink from across southern England to the Southern Co-op’s convenience stores.

The range currently includes around 2,000 products from more than 200 suppliers.

Matt Elliott, Southern Co-op's Retail Buying & Services Manager, who looks after the Local Flavours range, said: “Southern Co-op's enthusiasm for local food and drink comes from the amazing flavours, the dedicated people behind the products, and the benefits to the environment.

“As an independent, regional co-operative, we strive to be a sustainable and responsible business and our Local Flavours range is just one way in which we achieve this.

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“Over the last 15 years, we have developed some incredible relationships with our Local Flavours producers and discovered hidden talent which has gone on to be stocked on shelves nationwide.”

Every county where Southern Co-op trades has a bespoke Local Flavours range which may include cheeses, yogurts, cream, ice cream, cakes and baked goods, sandwiches, meat, fish or beer.

To find out more about the Southern Co-op's Local Flavours range, visit www.thesouthernco-operative.co.uk/food/local-flavours/.

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