admin Gail’s bakery chain will drop its surcharge for soya milk starting 21 May. This change follows a successful campaign by Peta, a leading animal rights charity. The decision aims to support ethical consumer choices. However, Gail’s will still charge customers between 40p and 60p for oat milk. Peta has praised this move, yet they urge the bakery chain to remove the surcharge for oat milk as well.
The rise of plant-based milks is undeniable. At least one in three Britons now prefer plant-based alternatives. With so many choosing dairy-free options for health, ethical, or environmental reasons, Peta believes charging extra is unfair. The charity’s vice-president, Dawn Carr, stated that plant-based milk is often a conscious choice. For many, it’s not just about taste. It’s about compassion for animals and sustainability.
The move by Gail’s is seen as a positive first step. However, Peta continues to call for a complete overhaul. The surcharge for oat milk, Carr argues, also leaves a “bad taste.” It contradicts the idea of ethical, sustainable choices. Customers expect transparency and fairness when selecting plant-based options.
Several other companies have already embraced this change. For example, Pret a Manger eliminated the surcharge for plant-based milks in 2020. Similarly, Starbucks followed suit in 2022. Leon and Joe and the Juice offer dairy-free milk options without extra charges. Costa Coffee and Caffè Nero, however, charge 45p extra for oat and coconut milk. They do not add a surcharge for soya milk.
Gail’s spokesperson clarified that the company understands the importance of choice. They are committed to offering British-grown oat and soya milk as alternatives. The chain is dedicated to using high-quality, sustainable ingredients. They aim to provide their customers with more flexible, inclusive options.
The move marks a positive shift towards more sustainable and ethical practices in the food industry. More companies may follow suit in the future. While this change is welcomed, the battle for more affordable plant-based milks is far from over. As consumer demand continues to grow, so too will the call for fairer pricing in the plant-based milk market.
Gail’s commitment shows their dedication to offering delicious, sustainable alternatives. As they step into a new era of inclusivity, customers can look forward to more responsible choices.
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