M&S has named A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd as its primary wholesale partner for third-party branded products, marking the latest step in its Reshape for Growth strategy.
The West Midlands-based family-owned business will supply a selection of premium branded goods directly to M&S’ regional distribution network, delivering daily across the week.
The retailer said the move is designed to improve product availability for customers while increasing operational efficiency for stores and colleagues.
M&S Food MD Alex Freudmann said: “We are thrilled to be backing another British family business, working with A.F. Blakemore & Son as our new, trusted wholesale partner.
“Blakemore will be providing an improved wholesale solution with a full seven days a week service that will increase availability for our stores and customers.”
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Blakemore CEO Carol Welch added: “At A.F. Blakemore & Son we are committed to delivering consistent quality, agility, and service, and it’s a privilege to partner with M&S to help accelerate growth of their Food business.
“This partnership reflects the advances made in our wholesale and food service capabilities and the significant investment in our infrastructure, and product ranging.”
M&S said the new supplier arrangement does not signal an expansion of third-party brands on its shelves, with the retailer continuing to focus on its own-brand ranges. Around 20% of M&S Food suppliers are family-owned businesses, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting British suppliers.
The multi-year deal consolidates chilled and ambient supply and replaces Booker as the retailer’s wholesale partner for these lines, aiming to deliver a more consistent and reliable shopping experience across its network.
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