Retailer Backs British Chicken With Major Funding Boost
M&S Invests Further in UK Chicken Sector
Marks & Spencer has announced a significant expansion of its investment in British chicken farming, increasing support to the sector by 33%, equivalent to £36 million.
The retailer said the move reflects strong growth in sales of its Oakham Gold chicken range and reinforces its long-term commitment to 100% British-sourced chicken. The additional funding will be used to expand M&S’s RSPCA Assured supply chain, supporting higher welfare production standards across its poultry suppliers.
M&S said customer demand for higher welfare chicken continues to grow, with the Oakham Gold range outperforming expectations. The investment will allow farmers to scale production, invest in infrastructure and maintain welfare standards amid ongoing cost pressures facing the poultry sector.
The announcement comes against a backdrop of rising UK chicken imports, particularly from Poland, and increasing scrutiny of sourcing standards across the retail market. Industry observers say M&S’s approach contrasts with some competitors that have turned to imported poultry to manage costs.
For UK producers, the commitment provides longer term supply certainty and highlights the commercial viability of welfare led poultry systems when aligned with strong retail backing.
Source: Marks & Spencer | 25 January 2026
Read full article Share on X