Billa Pledges Fully Austrian Egg Supply For Easter

Billa noted that of the approximately 260 million eggs it purchases annually, 62% are organic and free-range, while 38% are barn eggs, ESM Magazine reports.

As a result, the retailer contributes approximately €55 million in value creation to Austrian agriculture each year.

Easter Supply Challenges

During the Easter season, the demand for eggs increases significantly, rising by approximately 50%.

To meet this seasonal demand, Billa purchases approximately 10.5 million eggs from local suppliers.

The retailer also added that fresh eggs sold in its stores during Easter are dyed and packaged in Austria, further supporting domestic production.

Erich Szuchy, CEO of Billa Austria, said, “Even though demand increases significantly around Easter, we stand by our commitment to Austrian agriculture and offer exclusively domestic fresh and Easter eggs.

“We have been working with many farms for many years and see that the number of regional suppliers who supply markets in their region is growing.

“This year, too, we are ensuring that our customers are supplied with 100% Austrian eggs for Easter.”

Animal Welfare Contribution

Billa also highlighted its long-standing commitment to animal welfare, having started its transition to offering cage-free eggs in 1996.

In addition, the retailer stated that 50% of its fresh-meat sales revenue adheres to higher animal welfare standards.

In 2020, Billa switched to offering only locally produced fresh meat across its Austrian stores.

The retailer reiterated that the recently signed Mercosur agreement will not impact its commitment to domestic agriculture.