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Support for Local Food
Nearly a third (30%) of shoppers say they have specifically purchased locally produced food over the last month, which is double the number in 2006, according to new consumer research released by food and grocery analysts IGD.

Support for ethically produced foods in general has withstood the pressures of an 18-month recession and is in fact growing, despite the tough economic conditions.

When asked about food they have specifically purchased over the last month, shoppers responded:
  • 30% said locally produced food (up from 15% in 2006)
  • 27% Fairtrade products (up from 9%)
  • 18% products with high animal welfare standards (up from 11%)

Joanne Denney-Finch, chief executive, IGD, said: "These figures prove what we have been saying throughout the recession – shoppers are looking for both value and values. They are not simply looking for cheaper food in tough times, they also expect the grocery industry to support their moral and ethical values."

One in five (20%) would like a farmers’ market or farm shop
to be established nearby
Drilling down into reasons for supporting local food in particular, most said that it was fresher, but the biggest riser over the last few years has been support for the local economy:
  • 57% said they purchased local food because it has not travelled as far and is therefore fresher
  • 54% wanted to support local producers and farmers (up from 28% in 2006)
  • 34% wanted to support local retailers (18% in 2006)
  • 29% wanted to keep jobs in the local area (up from 14%)

IGD also asked shoppers what improvements they would like to see to their food and grocery shopping experience. Once again, support for locally produced food was up, with 31% saying they would like more local products available to them, compared with 12% in 2005. One in five (20%) would like a farmers’ market or farm shop to be established nearby, up from 15% in 2005.

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.