Grant support

There have been fears from Manx food producers over the impact of the Shoprite takeover, which has served the island since 1972.

But a spokesman for the UK chain said while the transfer of Tesco products had already begun across the Shoprite outlets, talks were ongoing with local suppliers about stocking their products.

To help make that happen, the Manx government has created a grant scheme to help producers meet the eligibility criteria needed by gaining Safe and Local Supplier Approval (Salsa) accreditation.

Minister for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (Defa) Clare Barber said the initiative aimed to "empower more local producers and creators to meet the stringent standards required".

"We hope the 100% funded grant support will serve as a catalyst for enhancing the presence of the Isle of Man's finest culinary offerings in wider market spaces," she said.

Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston said his department was working with Defa to "ensure the transition period has minimal impact on residents and all supplier concerns are raised and communicated appropriately".