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Waitrose becomes the first UK supermarket to launch year-round British samphire, reinforcing its commitment to British produce and local growers
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Innovative glasshouse technology replicates coastal microclimates to guarantee continuous British supply
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Building on the trend of samphire evolving from a chef's favourite into a staple for home cooks
Waitrose has become the first UK supermarket to source home-grown samphire all year round. The move completely transforms the availability of one of the nation’s favourite sea vegetables, while reinforcing their commitment to backing British growers, produce and sustainable innovation.
Tracey May, Fresh Prepared Produce Buyer at Waitrose says: “Traditionally, British samphire has been a fleeting summer delicacy with just a 12-week window. We know how much our customers value British produce, so we’re thrilled to break that barrier. By becoming the first retailer to offer this, we’re delivering that premium, peak-season British quality to our shelves all year round."
To achieve this, Waitrose have partnered with British growers Westlands, who are utilising advanced hydroponic and glasshouse technology to become the first UK producer to grow samphire all year round.
Hannah Stewart, Produce Technical Manager at Waitrose says, “By using innovative, sustainable glasshouse engineering, our growers can recreate the exact coastal conditions samphire needs to thrive all year round. The secret is hydroponics - a soil-free method that allows us to extend the season well beyond summer. By using LED lighting to replicate sunshine and adjusting the saline solution, we can precisely control the salt levels to achieve the perfect taste and texture. It’s a massive UK first, ensuring a reliable, continuous supply of that signature salty-sweet crunch, even in the depths of January.”
The growers Westlands are also embracing sustainability in many ways - including cutting its carbon footprint by reducing air miles from imports, installing a solar farm on its packhouse roof and a combined heat pump to power the LED lights.
Will Boers, Westlands Director says: “Our biggest sustainability success has been recycling water. When you grow samphire hydroponically, you can collect the run-off water to recycle, which you can’t do when you grow it on the ground. We recycle 85% of the water, filter it, clean it, then use it again.”
Samphire's popularity is driven by a wave of interest in restaurant-style dining, sourcing British produce and wellness.
Paul Gamble, Senior Development Chef at Waitrose comments,“Our obsession with rich, umami flavours is huge right now, and sea vegetables are right at the centre of that. Samphire has evolved from a niche foodie secret to an absolute staple on the British dinner table. It’s incredibly versatile - beyond fresh fish and seafood, it adds a brilliant, vibrant pop to summery salads and pasta dishes. I love popping it on the barbecue for a smoky edge - simply toss in oil, black pepper and cook in a heatproof pan until tender, then finish with lemon juice!”
Known for its distinct crunch and natural affinity with fresh fish and seafood, samphire is also highly regarded for its nutritional benefits.
Dr Joanne Lunn, Lead Nutritionist at Waitrose comments, "Samphire is a great source of calcium and fibre - which are vital for a healthy metabolism. Because it's naturally rich in coastal minerals, it’s a brilliant way to add intense flavour and texture to your plate without having to reach for the salt shaker."
Notes to Editors
About Waitrose
Waitrose is the Home of Food Lovers, serving customers with exceptional quality products and expert service.
Part of the John Lewis Partnership - the UK’s largest employee-owned business - Waitrose has 320 shops and a strong online business. It also has agreements with brands like Welcome Break and Shell, further bolstering its local footprint.
It works closely with British farmers and suppliers, and is a market-leader for animal welfare and responsible sourcing - using sustainable farming methods, including on its very own farm, the Leckford Estate.
Waitrose has 800 specialist counters across its shops, and holds a Royal Warrant as Grocer and Wine & Spirits Merchant to His Majesty King Charles III.
