ler SuperValu has said that it is 'not involved in a boycott of Israeli products', after reports indicated that the retailer had written to its staff advising them to withdraw certain Israeli products from its shelves.In a statement, the retailer said that it 'very occasionally sources some products from Palestine and Israel when we cannot get sufficient supply from our main markets'.
However, it added that it 'currently [has] sufficient stock from [its] usual supply market, with no goods ordered from Palestine and Israel at this time.
'SuperValu is not involved in a boycott of Israeli produce, and ultimately consumers will make their own purchasing decisions. We understand that this is an emotive issue, however, we have a policy of not taking a position on international affairs.'
Last week, Mandate Trade Union wrote to more than 20 retail groups, including Musgrave, Tesco, Dunnes, Aldi, Lidl, BWG Foods, Londis and Boots, urging them to cease stocking Israeli goods, as the conflict in Gaza intensifies.
“We believe major retail employers can protect their workers from these complaints and can assist their customers in their attempts to avoid purchasing products deemed associated with the conflict in Gaza,” said Gerry Light, Mandate assistant general secretary.
He added, “Adopting such a course of action will, without doubt, greatly help the most vulnerable caught up in the conflict, but also assist your many customers and staff, who on an increasing basis are faced with a dilemma of conscience in dealing with products which they see as tainted by association.”
