M&S launches first sustainability-focused innovation challenge
Marks & Spencer has launched its inaugural sustainability innovation challenge for start-ups as it looks to work with tech-focused partners in its efforts to achieve its net zero goal by 2040.
In a collaboration with the innovation and investment firm True, M&S’s Ignite team is seeking ideas and technologies that will encourage more sustainable behaviours amongst M&S customers and provide solutions that can help the business achieve further efficiencies in its agricultural supply chains.
M&S said start-ups and scale-ups can apply for one – or both – of the two tasks before a top solution for each is chosen for a proof of concept and trial across M&S, with scope for further rollout.
Stuart Ramage, head of Ignite programme at M&S, said: “Calling all start-ups, we’re on the hunt for your latest innovation or technology, which will help us reduce our impact on tomorrow’s world. In return, we can turn an idea into reality and offer a trial backed by the scale of M&S as a global retailer, with support from our dedicated Ignite innovation team along the way. We’re really excited to hear all of your ideas as we continue to drive a culture of innovation across M&S.”
