Morrisons has extended its commitment to pay farmers, local food makers and small businesses straight away to January 2021.

The grocer has committed to paying its smallest suppliers immediately in order to help them through the ongoing crisis and keep them afloat now that the UK is in recession.

Morrisons has been making these immediate payments since March to help with small businesses’ cash flow.

The extension will help businesses that supply up to £1m of turnover, including small farmers that provide eggs, potatoes and livestock directly to Morrisons.

The grocer uses around 3,000 small suppliers, including 2,750 who will benefit from this move.

As a thank you, farmers and foodmakers will also continue to receive 5% off their grocery shop at Morrisons until January.

Morrisons chief executive David Potts said: “Suppliers and farmers have told us they face ongoing pressure and we want to be there for them during this challenging period.

“We highly value the continued and consistent efforts of British farmers and small suppliers, and want to say thank you and extend support where we can.”