Asda has teamed up with Social Investment Scotland to launch the UK’s first social enterprise supplier development academy, with the aim of increasing the availability of social enterprise products for ethically-minded consumers on supermarket shelves.

Funded through the proceeds from Asda’s carrier bag charge in Scotland – which so far totals around £750,000 – the new academy will support up to eight Scottish social enterprises to strengthen their understanding of supermarket retail and refine their commercial and marketing skills.

Product-based social enterprises will be able to apply for a place at the academy with shortlisted firms being required to make a Dragon’s Den style pitch before a selection panel.