Farmers voice anger at below-cost vegetables at protests outside Lidl and Aldi
“Our members are enraged cabbage is selling for 29c a head — a third of the recommended retail price,” said Billy Cotter, chair of North Cork IFA.
“There are about 100 local farmers affected. Our industry is in crisis. We’re being hammered by this.
“Lidl and Aldi are putting pressure on farmers, but they’re also putting pressure on other shops in the area, who will also now be chasing farmers to lower their prices.
"It’s a race to the bottom.”
Some 60 farmers joined IFA-led protests yesterday outside Lidl and Aldi outlets in Glanmire, Co Cork.
They were part of a national series of protests outside the two German-owned retail chains.
IFA national chairman, Jer Bergin, accused Aldi and Lidl of gross hypocrisy by selling fresh produce below the cost of production while claiming to support Irish growers.
“The use of below-cost selling as a tool to drive footfall seriously distorts the market for all Irish vegetables and ultimately undermines Irish production and the financial viability of our specialist growers,” said Mr Bergin.
“These growers have invested hugely in their farm businesses to supply Bord Bia Quality Assured Irish fresh produce for consumers. Their sustainability cannot be taken for granted.”
The IFA says new consumer laws have failed to address below-cost selling.
“We need an independent ombudsman in place who can effectively police retailers and enforce the legislation,” he said.
“Ironically, legislation exists in Germany, the headquarters of the two retailers, which outlaws this practice of below-cost selling.”
