The contracts are part of a multi-million investment by Tesco to spearhead the growth of British Aberdeen Angus beef.
The beef, which will be aged for 28 days, will be part of Tesco’s ‘Finest’ range, which the retailer said would guarantee a price above the standard market rate for beef.
It added that Aberdeen Angus beef is recognised for its quality and provides its customers with the best possible quality and flavour.
One of Tesco’s beef processors, Foyle Group, said the new contracts would secure long-term sustainability for the beef sector.
Coinciding with the contracts, Tesco will also be re-launching its ‘Sustainable Farming Group for Beef’, joining other meat sustainable groups set up by the retailer, such as pork and poultry.
The groups allow suppliers and the retailer to set up a forum to discuss sustainable production, customer needs, Tesco’s quality standards and how they can work together more closely.
Tesco’s commercial director for fresh food George Wright said the new contracts and the reformation of its Sustainable Farming Group for Beef would strengthen its partnerships with farmers.
“We’re committed to building long-term, transparent partnerships with our suppliers, growers and farmers,” said Wright. “It means they can build their businesses and invest for the future, while providing our customers with the best-quality British beef.”
As well as enhancing its relationships with farmers, Tesco has also boosted its offering for the thriving meat substitute trend that is sweeping the UK.
Tesco launched plant-based steaks at 400 of its stores, which were supplied by Netherlands-based firm Vivera. The steaks were in such high demand that the plant-based firm revealed it had to boost production after some of the steaks sold out at various stores within a day.
Tesco is also set to roll out its latest plant-based listing – The Beyond Burger – from August, provided by leading US alternative protein business Beyond Meat.