THE Southern Co-operative has renewed its corporate partnership with county food group Hampshire Fare.

Hampshire Fare has been working with its partner since 2008 making it the longest serving corporate partner.

Kate Hibbert, local sourcing manager for The Southern Co-operative, said: “As a regional retailer and as a co-operative we value and support our local communities and our local producers.

“Our involvement with Hampshire Fare enables us to access a range of suppliers, working with some producers who are already established and discovering others who are starting out.

She added: “I am on the board of Hampshire Fare and I find this level of engagement invaluable as it allows me to see the Hampshire food community from a different angle. The work Hampshire Fare undertakes is important and at The Southern Co-operative we are very keen to continue to support this well-renowned and highly thought of county food group.”

Tracy Nash, commercial manager with Hampshire Fare, said: “We are delighted The Southern Co-operative is continuing to support Hampshire Fare. Our work is only possible thanks to support from our corporate partners and friends. We also value the perspective that Kate offers our board as a multiple retailer. In addition, we believe there is a great deal of synergy between the two organisations as we both support local producers and the local economy.”