ESG Drysdale, a vegetable producer based in Scotland, has expanded its locally grown asparagus supply to over 60 Asda stores across the North East of England, following its initial launch in Scottish outlets in 2024. The company expects to sell at least 25 tonnes of asparagus through Asda in the 2025 season.
Formed through the 2024 merger of East of Scotland Growers and R&K Drysdale, ESG Drysdale began supplying asparagus to Scottish stores last year. Following this launch, the company began deliveries to Asda's Washington distribution centre in Tyne and Wear before the previous season ended.
The asparagus is grown across approximately 40 acres on Scotland's east coast, near the Firth of Forth. ESG Drysdale credits the region's coastal conditions—warm, sandy soils with consistent moisture and high sunlight exposure—for the crop's performance. The asparagus is typically delivered to stores within two days of harvest.
In 2025, three product lines will be available in 91 Asda stores in Scotland and 66 in England. Approximately 70% of the asparagus volume is expected to be sold in Scotland, with the remainder distributed to English outlets. ESG Drysdale collaborates with two asparagus growers along the east coast of Scotland.
According to the company, demand has increased with expanded distribution. The early season start, facilitated by the growing conditions, allows for quicker entry to market. The crop's proximity to the shore is said to contribute to consistent growing conditions, reducing frost risk and improving freshness on arrival in retail stores.
From the retailer's perspective, working with regional producers allows for faster logistics and shorter supply chains. ESG Drysdale noted that securing early-season orders for asparagus supports growers' ability to plan and scale production, particularly given the time and investment needed to cultivate asparagus, which typically takes three years to reach harvest.
The company also highlighted that structured retail partnerships enable better forecasting and planning compared to less predictable market channels.
For more information:
Elliott Lancaster
ASDA
Tel: +44 (0) 77797 00385
www.corporate.asda.com