M&S has recognised nine exceptional farmers from across Scotland at this year’s M&S Select Farm Awards, held on the first day of the Royal Highland Show (Thursday 19th June).
The awards highlight the best in agriculture, celebrating sustainability, innovation, animal welfare, and the rising stars shaping the future of farming.
The 2025 winners represent a cross-section of the M&S supply base – including fish, poultry, fruit, vegetables, eggs, beef, lamb and dairy – highlighting the huge diversity in protein and produce soured from Scottish suppliers.
Produce Excellence Award: Lucy Wilkins and Lochy Porter – Angus Soft Fruits, Arbroath
The award recognises Angus Soft Fruits’ outstanding commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering exceptional quality across their soft fruit supply – including the exclusive Red Diamond strawberries grown for M&S.
Lucy Wilkins, Director of the AVA™ Berries Breeding Programme has built on the legacy of developing the UK’s first-ever premium-tier strawberry, “AVA” more than 20 years ago. Co-founder of Angus Soft Fruits Limited Lochy Porter has been leading the charge on sustainable strawberry production. The farm has introduced a number of advanced techniques to reduce reliance on chemical inputs and work more closely with nature.
Lochy said: “We’re proud to be recognised for doing what we believe in – producing great fruit, in a way that works hand in hand with nature. This award is for everyone across our team who makes that possible, from the fields to the breeding programme to the packhouse.”
Environmental Champion Award: Ben Miller, Bathgate, West Lothian
Recognised for his forward-thinking approach to efficiency, soil health, and sustainable farming practices. Ben is driving environmental improvements across every part of the business – from nutrient mapping and reduced fertiliser use to cutting carbon emissions through precision feeding and home-grown feed systems – delivering clear benefits to the environment.
“We’re always trying new things to make the farm work better – for us and for the environment,” Ben said. “If there’s a way to waste less, grow better feed or get animals finished quicker, we’ll give it a go.”
Royal Countryside Fund Family Farm Award: The Currie Family – Hamilton, Lanarkshire
Farming has run through the Currie family for decades. Now joined by their children, Stuart and Jean continue to develop the 230-cow dairy herd with an unwavering focus on animal health, sustainability and community values.
Stuart said: “Our whole family take our role in caring for the countryside seriously. We are proud to get this recognition from M&S and the Royal Countryside Fund.”
Only at M&S Award: Duncan Farms - Aberdeenshire
Duncan Farms, based in Aberdeenshire, supplies 100% of M&S’s Scottish free-range eggs. Over the past year, they’ve led two major breakthroughs:
- A 50% reduction in carbon footprint of eggs (from a 2021 baseline) by swapping imported soy for home-grown fava beans in hen diets
- The nationwide launch of ‘rich in Omega-3’ eggs through diet enrichment, improving the nutritional value of a naturally healthy food
“It’s great to have all the team’s hard work recognised,” said Rachael Duncan of Duncan farms. “We share the same values as M&S – a focus on sustainability, long-term growth, and delivering healthy, high-quality food.”
Emerging Talent Award (Produce): Finlay Ross, Balmalcolm, Fife
Recognising exceptional individuals aged 35 and under across the M&S supply chain, Finlay’s practical skills, forward-thinking mindset and people-first approach made him standout. Since joining Kettle Produce in 2023, Finlay has taken on full responsibility for the management and agronomy of all broccoli and cauliflower crops grown by the business and its wider grower group – offering expert advice and hands-on support to ensure the highest standards from field to fork.
“I’m really honoured to receive this award from M&S – it’s a huge encouragement. I love what I do, and I’m lucky to work with such a great team at Kettle Produce,” Finlay said.
Emerging Talent Award (Livestock): Andre Van, Loch Melfort
Since joining Kames Fish Farming straight from university in 2018, Andre has quickly impressed as a passionate champion for fish health and welfare. Within a few short years, he’s built the farm’s first-ever fish health department, turning complex science into everyday best practice across all Kames sites.
Whether it’s training farm teams, leading cutting-edge research projects, or reducing medicine usage to support sustainability goals, Andre brings energy, expertise, and a deep love of learning to everything he does.
Innovation Award: Stuart Cannon, Loch Melfort
Stuart started Kames back in 1972 with a clear mission: to raise fish the right way – in harmony with nature, with animal welfare front and centre. Today, his Steelhead Trout are raised in fast-flowing saltwater sites, resulting in strong, healthy fish with a firm texture and flavour that M&S customers love.
But it’s Stuart’s vision behind the scenes that truly sets Kames apart. Over the past 15 years, he has led a groundbreaking broodstock programme, ensuring every trout is bred from a unique, sea-loving strain that’s naturally suited to Scottish waters. This home-grown approach supports fish health, reduces disease risk, and helps the farm adapt to climate change.
“This is a proud moment for us,” said Stuart. “It’s not just a win for Kames – it’s a win for sustainable, Scottish farming. It proves that doing things the right way, for the fish and for the environment, really does pay off.”
Welfare Excellence Award: Paul Smyth, Perth and Kinross
Paul is Farm Manager at Mawmill Farm, part of the 2 Sisters Food Group. Running a significant operation at Mawmill rearing M&S higher welfare, slower-growing RSPCA Assured chicken, Paul has achieved consistently outstanding results in bird health and welfare over the past year.
Paul said: “I’m really proud to receive this award. For me, good welfare is just part of doing the job right – it’s about knowing your birds, spotting the small things early, and creating the right conditions for them to stay healthy and thrive.
Steve McLean, Head of Agriculture and Fisheries at M&S, said: “These farmers represent the very best of our supply base – forward-thinking, committed and grounded in strong values. From young talent to seasoned innovators, they are helping to shape the future of farming in Scotland.”
The M&S Select Farm Awards are presented annually at the Royal Highland Show and celebrate the partnership between M&S and its dedicated network of Select Farmers across the UK.
ENDS
2025 Food Regional Sustainability