Spinneys, the UAE's premium fresh food supermarket, has become the first supermarket in the region to join GlobalG.A.P. - the global partnership for good agricultural practices - which promotes sustainable sourcing policies across the globe.
Joining the non-profit organisation is part of Spinneys' commitment to supporting initiatives that assure sustainable and safe food for consumers.
This partnership will allow Spinneys to bring a large range of certified sustainably-sourced fruits and vegetables from across the globe, as well as products sourced from the UAE's farmers.
Jannie Holtzhausen, CEO of Spinneys Dubai, said: "We are proud to become the first supermarket in the region to join GlobalG.A.P. as a retail member. Over the years we have developed our sourcing strategy to support farmers who produce sustainable food, which is safe for consumption and for the environment. This partnership confirms our commitment to sustainability."
Spinneys' sustainable sourcing strategy is based on seven key pillars including food safety, environmental protection, social responsibility, fair prices, GMO-free products, organic produce and locally-grown fruits and vegetables. Holtzhausen went on to talk about Spinneys' plans for evolving their sustainable sourcing plans "By 2017, 90 per cent of our fruits and vegetables will be from certified sustainable sources. We will continue to make it easier for our customers to eat well and live well by working closely with farmers and growers who share our values for safe, sustainable food."
At the moment, Spinneys sources only GlobalG.A.P.-certified fruits and vegetables from the UAE, South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Kenya, Chile and Europe.
In 2016, Spinneys will expand its sustainable sourcing to include producers from other countries, including the Philippines, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Australia and the US, among others.
Spinneys has also introduced the UAE Spinneys Farmer's Club to customers, bringing them a fantastic selection of fresh and quality products, specially packed to highlight the local and sustainable sourcing message.
Spinneys has built a strong and well-deserved reputation for freshness and customer service. Food safety, quality, freshness and service have been the main drivers at Spinneys since the company's inception and this has translated itself into the tagline for the brand - "The fresher experience".
Congratulation!