UK retailer Marks and Spencer has partnered with start-up initiative Kitchen Table Projects to launch a series of start-up events to help artisan food and drink entrepreneurs grow their brand awareness and supermarket sales.
Founded by entrepreneur Tara Mei, Kitchen Table Projects aims to champion small start-ups speciality producers with the aim of getting listed in European supermarkets.
In this new partnership with the upmarket retailer, Kitchen Table Projects will help deliver three events to assist emerging artisan producers learn how to grow their businesses and understand what it is like to scale up and become 'retail ready'.
Producers will also have the opportunity to pitch their food and drink product to buyers from the British retailer, which could eventually lead to a potential listing – as well as network with industry experts and other start-up producers.
All the events will be held at the retailer's Waterside House location in London.
"M & S is committed to supporting the next generation of UK food and drink brands," said Kirsty Grieve, deli product developer for M&S.
"Partnerships like this are invaluable, not just for those looking to grow their food and drink business - but also for M&S in helping us to discover the next big thing for our shelves."
Tara Mei, founder of Kitchen Table Projects, said, "There are thousands of emerging artisan food producers across the UK who have little experience of the food industry. Many make their products at the kitchen table, or in shared facilities, before selling them in local delis and grocers."
This new tie-up gives these producers a rare opportunity to be guided by the experts from one the UK's biggest and best known retailers, she added.
"Their knowledge is second to none, and who knows – one of them might even make it on to the coveted shelves of M&S."
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