By Andrew Galloway, local democracy reporter
Proposals for supermarkets to sell locally-sourced produce have been branded ‘potentially damaging’ to independent retailers by a business group.
MSP Brian Whittle had suggested that larger shops could have dedicated shelves or aisles directing customers to local produce.
Argyll and Bute councillor Alastair Redman also endorsed the idea on social media, but Helensburgh and Lomond Chamber of Commerce is not so keen.
The group says that any such plan would struggle to get off the ground, in Helensburgh at least, and would have an adverse effect on local producers.
A spokesman for the chamber said: “It should first be pointed out that local producers are already well represented in local shops which are not supermarkets and in that these independent retailers are providing a service which most supermarket outlets cannot.
“It is our belief that this was a topic investigated fully during the discussions prior to the opening of Waitrose.
“While local suppliers were invited to, and indeed took part in ‘Meet the Buyer’ events they were unsuccessful because the policy with Waitrose and most other supermarket chains is that they must be able to supply all their stores.
“Most small local producers are not able to meet that criteria.
“We have no indication whether the MSP who mooted this idea has actually established if any supermarket chains would be willing to take on local suppliers in individual shops.
“But we suspect that it would be a non-starter and, actually, potentially damaging to our independent retailers who already provide outlets for local producers should it go ahead.”
Mr Whittle, who is wellbeing and sport spokesman for the Scottish Conservatives, said: “Most major supermarkets have sections showcasing food from around the world, so there’s no reason why this can’t be replicated specifically for local produce.
“It would signpost people to where they can get food and drink made in their local area, which will be popular among those passionate about supporting small, local businesses.
“The relationship between major supermarkets and local firms hasn’t always been great, but this presents an opportunity to improve that.
“And if shoppers aren’t keen on this and want to continue as normal, they can just walk straight past.
“For smaller producers who might struggle to meet the demands of a nationwide contract, this would be a chance to build lasting relationships with major retailers.”
Cllr Redman, a Conservative who lives on Islay, then said on his Facebook page: “A local produce aisle in supermarkets would give consumers the opportunity to support local firms without losing the convenience of being able to buy a wide range of products under one roof.”
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