The managing director of frozen food retailer Iceland, Richard Walker, has warned that the UK government “can’t entirely shield” people from the effects of the cost-of-living crisis.
Speaking exclusively to Grocery Gazette, Walker said he hopes the UK government will continue to support both families and businesses through “the challenging months ahead”.
This comes as the Office for National Statistics revealed rising food prices is the most common reason behind the cost-of-living crisis.
This comes as nine in 10 adults (92%) revealed their grocery bills becoming more expensive was the main reason why their living costs grew in the period from 13 to 24 April.
READ MORE: Soaring energy costs will put jobs at risk, Iceland boss warns
“More support from the government will result in more businesses supporting consumers,” Walker told Grocery Gazette.
As a result, the frozen food retailer has recently partnered with Utilita to help UK households save money during the cost-of-living crisis. According to research by the energy supplier, households could save £604 each year by using cooking methods that are more energy-efficient.
The retailer also announced the launch of its a zero-interest loans scheme designed to help struggling families across the UK to deal with the ongoing cost-of living crisis.
In its first week, the scheme received around 50,000 applications.
Commenting on the scheme, Walker said the scheme is “intended to support customers through the cost of living crisis, helping families facing food insecurity to spread the cost of food, providing a crucial lifeline for many.”
He said: “No initiative made by a business can completely eradicate food poverty , but there is a pressing need for support like this and the approach of short-term affordable lending is strongly endorsed by existing customers and our pilot findings.”
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