M&S announces 'Farming for the Future' award shortlist

Farmers from Shetland, Orkney, Laurencekirk, Uddingston and Carluke have today been announced as finalists in this year’s prestigious M&S ‘Farming for the Future’ awards.

The winner will be announced on the first day of the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh on Thursday, 18th June.

The shortlisted entries include:

· Michael Tait, of family-run business Shetland Mussels Ltd (Innovation)

· Gideon Pringle of Dawnfresh Seafoods Ltd in Uddingston, the supplier of high-quality trout to M&S (Innovation)

· Ross Mitchell of Castleton Fruit Farm, the exclusive producer of soft fruits to M&S (Young Producer)

· Douglas Frame of Birks Farm in Carluke, which supplies M&S with high quality beef (Young Producer)

· Andrew Millar of Newlands Farm in Uddingston which specialises in supplying milk to M&S (Outstanding Producer)

· Mathers Family of Tormiston Farms in Orkney for their loyal supply of quality beef (Outstanding Producer)

These farmers have impressed the judges with their commitment to the future of farming, from investment and welfare, to engagement with the community and retailers, and enterprising sustainable practices.

M&S Farming for the Future is a programme of initiatives which champions sustainability and innovation. The programme is designed to help farmers identify opportunities for improvement, increase their profitability and provide a sustainable supply chain that can continue to deliver quality and innovation for the long term.

The awards celebrate suppliers working towards important M&S Plan A commitments including becoming carbon neutral, sending no waste to landfill, extending sustainable sourcing, setting new standards in ethical trading, and helping customers and employees live a healthier lifestyle.

Steve Mclean, M&S Head of Agriculture & Fisheries, said: “This year will mark our eighth Farming for the Future Awards and it’s without doubt that the judging process becomes more challenging year on year. We are continually impressed with the commitment and passion our suppliers show towards Plan A and sustainable farming practices, and I’m delighted to once again be honouring some of the country’s most inspiring farming champions.

“Last year’s awards were won by Colin MacDonald of Scottish Sea Farms for Young Producer of the Year, Peter Stirling of PJ Stirling LLP in Arbroath for Food Producer of the Year, and Richard Darbyshire for Livestock Producer of the year. These farmers impressed the judges with their commitment to innovation, best practice and future-proof farming. The farmers shortlisted this year are all exceptional and I’m looking forward to unveiling the winners at the Royal Highland Show later this month.”