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Grown with nature, ripened on the tree

For more than 38 years, we've worked with A. Hinge & Sons in North Kent, growing apples that are packed with flavour. Rather than picking fruit early and ripening it in storage, varieties such as Gala, Braeburn and Cox are left to ripen naturally on the tree, allowing nature to develop their sweetness, colour and character. It's a slower approach, but one that delivers exceptional flavour and M&S quality.

The family's orchards are also helping nature flourish. Wildflower strips are planted throughout new orchards, alongside bee hotels, beehives, bat boxes and owl boxes. Three hectares of new woodland have been created, while wetland habitats provide a home for species including kingfishers, lapwings and egrets. Investment through our Plan A for Farming programme has also helped improve water efficiency across the farm, while a focus on soil health helps reduce reliance on fertilisers and pesticides. It's proof that by working closely with growers over the long term, we can help protect nature while continuing to grow exceptional British apples for generations to come.

Ben Fogle recently visited Andy Cato from Wildfarmed to see how regenerative farming is helping bring life back to Britain's fields.

"Regenerative farming is all about growing great crops while improving the environment they're grown in - rebuilding soil health, supporting wildlife and helping nature thrive. Wildfarmed wheat is grown alongside a mix of plants that feed the soil and attract beneficial insects, creating healthier crops and more resilient farms."

Every loaf, cracker and mince pie starts in the soil, which is why the way wheat is grown matters. Wildfarmed works directly with farmers to produce wheat using regenerative methods that support healthier soils, encourage biodiversity and reduce reliance on intensive farming practices.

Today, M&S uses more Wildfarmed flour than any other retailer. As part of our Plan A for Farming commitment, we aim for all British-sourced products to come from farms using regenerative practices by 2030. Behind every product is a farming approach designed to work with nature, helping create thriving farmland while producing ingredients with real character and flavour.

Regenerative farming isn't just about how food is grown today. It's about building healthier soils, supporting wildlife and helping create a more resilient future for British farming - one harvest at a time.