Brian Moralee, from Wight Salads, has made it onto the shortlist of this year’s prestigious M&S ‘Farming for the Future’ awards.
With 20 years of experience growing tomatoes, Brian pioneered organic UK tomato production in the late 1990s, as well as growing many new varieties for M&S over the last 13 years. His farm supports ‘Conservation Grade Farming’, which involves creating wildlife habitats on at least 10% of the land. Brian also began a significant tree-planting programme which saw more than 500 trees planted in 2014. The judges were impressed by his pioneering work in organic tomato production and soil health, as well as his commitment to ‘Conservation Grade Farming’ and innovation for M&S.
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. I wish Brian the very best of luck.”
Brian will find out if he has been crowned winner on the first day of the Great Yorkshire Show in Harrogate on Tuesday 14th July.
