Lidl GB has announced a landmark £30bn commitment to back the British food and farming industry over the next five years –  doubling its previous investment pledge as the discounter marks its fourth decade in the UK.

The new investment builds upon the discounter’s previous £15bn commitment, which it exceeded by £6bn last year, with £30bn representing the total value of sourcing contracts between 2025 and 2030.

The new pledge aims to support more than 650 British suppliers across key food categories, including fresh produce, meat, and poultry, while reinforcing national food security through long-term, sustainable supply partnerships.

The retailer’s plan includes £1.5bn investment in British beef; supporting farmers to cut carbon and improve herd performance; 100% LEAF Marque certification for all British fresh fruit and veg suppliers by next year; expansion of sustainability schemes such as the WRAP Water Roadmap; and ruumi regenerative farming platform.

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“This investment is a clear, long-term commitment to British farmers and growers,” Lidl GB chief commercial officer Richard Bourn. “By backing British, we’re giving suppliers the confidence to invest and innovate while ensuring customers continue to enjoy quality, affordable food.”

The announcement was welcomed by Food Security and Rural Affairs minister Dame Angela Eagle who called the move “a strong vote of confidence in the quality and reliability of British farming.”

She added: “By backing British produce we’re supporting rural communities and investing in sustainable food systems that benefit both consumers and the environment.”

Earlier this year, the supermarket chain launched a two-day inaugural farming conference, in a bid to reinforce its commitment to British agriculture.