Waitrose takes another decisive step in its programme Farming for nature, announcing a £1 million investment and two new strategic partnerships with Soil Association Exchange e RegenifiedThe aim is to support 2.000 British farms in the transition to regenerative practices, strengthening the resilience of agricultural businesses and contributing to food security and environmental protection.
The programme aims to introduce regenerative practices across all UK farms supplying Waitrose by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2035“Producing quality food and taking care of nature are two sides of the same coin,” he declared. Andrew Hoad, Director of the Leckford Estate and Program Farming for nature. “These collaborations allow us to measure progress and demonstrate the positive impact of our actions on soil, water, and biodiversity.”
The partnership with Soil Association Exchange It provides a four-year monitoring and impact measurement program for pioneering farms in the Waitrose supply chain. Indicators such as soil health, biodiversity, animal welfare, water management, and social impact, providing producers with scientific tools and technical advice.
“Farmers want to do the right thing, but they need reliable data and concrete support,” he explained. Joseph Gridley, CEO of Soil Association Exchange. “With Waitrose, we are turning scientific evidence into practical action, combining sustainability and profitability.” At the same time, Waitrose is starting a collaboration with Regenified, a world leader in regenerative agriculture certification. The brand will offer 100 farms get free access to the Regenified™ certification framework, which will allow improvements in soil health, water management and biodiversity to be monitored over time.
“This is a pioneering initiative that gives farmers the tools and independent verification to build resilient and sustainable businesses,” he commented. Salar Shemirani, co-founder and CEO of Regenified. Participation in the program will be voluntary and free for three years, making Waitrose the first British supermarket to certify regenerative farming practices on a large scaleThe project will also involve the Leckford Estate, the retailer’s only directly owned farm, has been active in regenerative practices since 2020 and is the first in the UK to obtain Regenified™ certification for its vineyards and orchards.
With this investment, Waitrose consolidates its leadership in the ecological transition of the British food system, strengthening collaboration with farmers, universities and technology partners to build a more equitable, transparent and regenerative supply chain "from soil to table".
