- A new supply chain decarbonization programme developed in partnership with Schneider Electric
M&S has today announced the launch of RE:Spark, a new supply chain decarbonization programme developed in partnership with Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader.
The initiative has been designed to accelerate the adoption of renewable electricity across M&S’s global fashion supply chain and is a key part of the retailer’s sustainability strategy - Plan A - which aims to achieve net zero emissions across its value chain by 2040.
RE:Spark reflects M&S’s commitment to look beyond its own operations and spark change across its supply chain. Through the RE:Spark programme, M&S and Schneider Electric will:
- Launch a centralised digital hub where suppliers can submit emissions data, track decarbonization efforts, and learn more about carbon reduction action
- Host regional market briefs and webinars
- Provide advisory services to help suppliers assess and implement clean energy solutions
- Enable suppliers to aggregate demand for power purchase agreements
Katharine Beacham, Head of Sustainability and Materials in Fashion, Home & Beauty at M&S, said: "We believe sustainability should be embedded in everything we do, from how we source products to supporting our partners and customers to do the right thing.
"We know that real change happens when we collaborate. That’s why RE:Spark is designed not only to ignite new ideas and unlock renewable energy opportunities for our supply base, but also to make the transition easier by providing access to support and resources. By acting as a facilitator, we can help our suppliers build networks and resilience for the long term - sparking a movement of change across the industry and beyond. It’s all part of our broader commitment – through Plan A, our approach to sustainability - to support the transition to a low-carbon economy."
Steve Wilhite, Executive Vice President, SE Advisory Services, said: “As an energy technology company, we’re proud to be working with M&S to help suppliers overcome barriers to renewable electricity adoption. RE:Spark is a powerful example of how collaboration can drive scalable, impactful change across global supply chains.”
The programme will initially focus on high-impact regions within M&S’s fashion supply chain, with plans to expand over the next three years.
RE:Spark builds on M&S’s work to improve environmental performance in its manufacturing* as well as recent circularity milestones, including the launch of Another Life - M&S’s platform for activating circularity in Fashion, Home & Beauty - which brings together initiatives across Rewear, Repair, Recycle and Resale.
These initiatives are central to M&S’s ambition to reshape for sustainable, profitable growth and to become a net zero business by 2040.
Notes to Editors
*As part of its commitment to data-driven sustainability, M&S has scaled adoption of the Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM) across Tier 1 finished goods facilities and Tier 2 wet processing sites. Verified emissions data from these assessments feed into Scope 3 emission calculations, helping M&S target action where it matters most.
M&S also works directly with suppliers through webinars, training and review sessions to improve data accuracy and support environmental improvements. M&S has sponsored high volume facilities to take part in the Apparel Impact Institute’s Carbon Leadership Programme, which helps suppliers analyse their energy use, improve efficiency, and shift to lower-carbon fuel sources.
Under Another Life, M&S has introduced a resale partnership with eBay and Reskinned where customers can trade in their pre-loved items through M&S’s first online takeback scheme and shop pre-loved M&S clothing, footwear and accessories through the M&S x eBay store. Items are professionally cleaned, repaired and resold, with profits supporting Oxfam.
About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industries, businesses, and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centers, factories, infrastructure, and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability. The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory. With 160,000 employees and 1 million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world’s most sustainable companies.