Lancashire-based Huntapac Produce has speared a unique deal with Booths to be its exclusive supplier of asparagus this Spring.
The family-run business is set to supply its entire range of hand-cut Formby Coast asparagus to the North West retailer during the delicacy’s short, two-month season. Bunches, fine, fine tips and individual loose wonky spears will be available at Booths stores from May until just shortly after Midsummer’s Day, which is traditionally the date when all British asparagus growers stop cutting. And, for the first time, Huntapac will be supplying its packaged asparagus – the fine and fine tips – in clear, recyclable plastic punnets.
The Formby region has long been associated with asparagus and during the 1930s more than 200 acres were under cultivation in the region.
Stephen Shields, Technical Director at Tarleton based Huntapac Produce, said the asparagus season is always a special time of year.
“We are delighted to be the exclusive supplier of asparagus to Booths customers this year – shoppers are in for a real treat! With low food miles, minimal and recyclable packaging and full crop utilisation, Formby Coast asparagus is not only delicious but an ethical food choice for Booths’ customers. The use of clear plastic packaging – which is the most recyclable plastic available – is part of a growing trend among ethically minded producers and retailers to help tackle plastic waste in the UK. Thriving in the unique conditions of West Lancashire, it’s not long until the first asparagus stems are due to be cut and our team is gearing up for another successful harvest!”
Booths buyer, Tom Hargreaves, said they were looking forward to supplying Formby Coast asparagus to their 28 stores across Lancashire, Cheshire, Cumbria and Yorkshire.
“Asparagus is the very taste of Spring and early Summer. After a long winter, these delicate stems are very much loved by cooks, chefs and foodies everywhere. Straight from the field to our shelves, we will be working closely with the team at Huntapac to make the most of this delicious season so our shoppers can enjoy the very best asparagus grown in the sandy soil of the Formby Coast.”
Huntapac farms 2,500 acres of land across the UK for root vegetables. It has supplied the UK retail market with its root crops, salads and brassicas for over 70 years including wholesale, market and major retailers
Huntapac operates its own washing, grading, packing and distribution operations, which feature a range of modern technology and innovative solutions including using recycled water and solar power to reduce its environmental impact.
Picture Caption: (L-R) Stephen Shields Technical Director at Huntapac and Tom Hargreaves, Booths Buyer.