UK Retailers Turn to Local Sourcing Amid Import Pressures

With shipping costs and international delays mounting, a growing number of UK businesses are reshaping their supply chains to prioritize regional suppliers.

4 June 2025 at 10:20 • By Oliver Grant, The Angle Watch

Facing mounting import costs and global supply chain instability, a growing number of UK retailers are choosing to source goods locally. From family-owned shops to major supermarket brands, the shift is becoming more than just a trend—it’s a strategic pivot.

One such retailer is Bristol-based grocer Farmfare, which recently reduced its reliance on imported produce by 40% in favour of nearby farms. 'We realised we could cut delivery times in half and still maintain quality,' said supply chain manager Ben Kinsley.

The shift is being fueled by pressures from both sides: Brexit-related red tape has lengthened customs processing times, while the war in Ukraine and fuel price hikes have further strained international transport.

Retail economics expert Dr. Mary Dobbins from University of Reading points to resilience as the key driver. 'Local sourcing means fewer uncertainties. It may cost more upfront, but the long-term savings in reliability and customer satisfaction are substantial,' she explained.

The government has responded by offering grants to small businesses willing to restructure their supply networks. These incentives are particularly popular in the Midlands, where regional producers are stepping up to fill former import gaps.

Customers, too, appear to support the movement. A recent survey by Ipsos UK found that 61% of shoppers would prefer locally sourced goods, even if prices are marginally higher. Many cite environmental benefits and support for British farmers as core motivators.

Analysts believe the trend could redefine retail for the next decade. As import bottlenecks persist, sourcing domestically may become not just preferable, but essential.