Local instead of global
Apples sourced locally, meat from the region - local produce and typical regional cuisine are a major trend. But why? 5 reasons for going local instead of global.
Short distances
Regionally and locally produced foods have an unbeatable advantage: They don't have be transported long distances by ships, planes or trucks until they are available for production and consumption. Anyone who purchases local and seasonal produce, profits from short transport distances, reduced CO2 emissions and helps to protect the environment.
Freshness first
The price-traditionally one of the main purchasing criteria- is becoming less important for consumers and restaurateurs. Freshness and quality play an increasingly important part when shopping. The shorter the distance from the field to the supermarket shelves, the less the produce loses its freshness- particularly if long storage periods are eliminated.
Known origin
More and more customers and consumers want to know precisely where the products they buy come from, how and under what circumstances they were produced and processed. With fresh food, transparency and traceability are of particular importance. The vicinity to the producer and a short supply chain create trust and assurance.
Local Producer
Buying locally supports local producers and suppliers thereby contributing greatly to the support of the local agriculture. To think and shop regionally has therefore already been a strategic issue for wholesale retailers like METRO Cash & Carry for a long time. A close collaboration of local producers and suppliers is key for implementing the concept of regionality successfully.
Feeling of home
Local food is not least so popular because it also represents a feeling of home and being connected. It helps to create an identity in our globalised world as well as to nurture and keep traditions.