Marks and Spencer has donated the equivalent of 100m meals of surplus food from its stores to good causes over the last decade through its partnership with giving platform Neighbourly.

Since 2015 its food donations have supported more than 4.7m people and over 3,000 charities and community organisations.

The partnership has prevented more than 49,000 tonnes of good from going to waste, according to latest figures from M&S.

It has set a target of redistributing all of its edible surplus food during 2025/26. This is through its ‘Plan A’ net zero strategy.

Last year was the highest level of food donation, with more than 30 meals given to good causes. This is the highest in its decade-long partnership.

“This initiative not only helps tackle food waste and supports us in reaching our Plan A goals but also makes a real difference to those who need it most,” said M&S Food head of sustainability Lucinda Langton.

“None of this would be possible without the dedication of our incredible store colleagues.”

In the next phase of M&S’ partnership with Neighbourly, the retailer is trialling a surplus food initiative that allows collectors to pick up donations to redistribute within the community.

Currently 98% of its stores have a local charity partner and this trial is supporting the remaining stores. It aims to roll it out to an additional 50 stores across the UK.

Ben Fogle, Plan A Ambassador for M&S Food, added: “I’m delighted that our partnership with Neighbourly is not only reducing food waste but also helping people.

“We really do our best to keep waste to a minimum, but when we have a little extra, it’s great to know it’s being shared.”

---