Investment in British lamb and beef reaches £2.1 billion as M&S Food announces a ten-year partnership with red meat suppliers ABP and Dunbia.
The retailer revealed that its network of 3,500 M&S Select Farmers is set to supply British lamb and beef to outlets throughout the UK under this decade-long agreement.
This collaboration aims to enhance the exclusivity of M&S’s offerings, including Wagyu Gold, Aberdeen Angus Gold, and Organic products, in response to the increasing demand for beef.
As part of the investment plan, Dunbia intends to establish M&S-exclusive salt drying chambers, while ABP is set to enhance its packaging and meat processing capabilities to optimize production efficiency.
Investment will “stabilise the national herd”
Tom Bradshaw, president of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), remarked: “In light of substantial inflationary challenges stemming from the Iran conflict, the need for resilience within the farming sector has never been more crucial. We have long emphasized that fairness across the supply chain is vital for this resilience, as it enhances confidence among businesses.”
“This commitment from M&S will provide those 3,500 suppliers with the assurance needed to invest in their farms, stabilize the national herd, and foster the growth of cattle and sheep populations. This is beneficial for growth, productivity, and sustainability.”
“British beef and lamb enjoy an outstanding reputation for quality and welfare standards, and they are greatly appreciated by consumers. We are eager to collaborate with M&S, ABP, and Dunbia to ensure that these new contracts contribute to a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous UK livestock industry that can keep up with rising demand.”
“Our long-term commitment to sourcing British fresh lamb and beef… will support longer term investments and security for farmers for years to come.”
Alex Freudmann, managing director of M&S Food, stated: “M&S Food delivers top-notch quality at competitive prices, thanks to British farmers who uphold our industry-leading welfare standards and produce food that meets our customers’ expectations.”
“However, farmers face numerous challenges and now more than ever require UK retailers to commit to domestic sourcing. Our long-standing dedication to sourcing British fresh lamb and beef, in collaboration with ABP and Dunbia, will promote long-term investments and provide farmers with the security they need for the future.”
Michael Doran, managing director of Dunbia, remarked: “Establishing this new ten-year strategic alliance with M&S marks a significant achievement for Dunbia and highlights the quality, skill, and dedication of our team. This agreement strengthens our capacity to support the community of dedicated British farmers integral to our supply chain.”
“Their expertise, high welfare standards, and commitment to sustainable agriculture are at the core of our efforts. This partnership allows us to reinforce collaboration, invest in their future, and nurture a resilient and flourishing British farming sector for the years to come.”
Kevin Cahill, CEO of ABP UK, noted: “We are pleased to prolong our enduring partnership with M&S Food, which underscores our commitment to product quality and customer service over the next decade. This long-term agreement will empower us to invest in the future of the supply chain and offer greater security to our farmer suppliers moving forward.”
