Supplier has been recognised for investing in wide range of nature-friendly farming projects and pioneering work by several of its topfruit growers
Worldwide Fruit has been awarded Waitrose’s Supplier Award for Farming for Nature Engagement at the retailer’s annual conference.
The award recognises Worldwide Fruit’s topfruit growers, particularly Charlie Dunn at Chandler and Dunn, part of the Fruition Producer Organisation, for commitment and innovation in sustainable farming.
Chandler and Dunn, one of the first farms to commercially grow Jazz apples, is working on several sustainability projects with the Worldwide Fruit technical teams, including earwig population research and optimising light levels in tree canopies.
The farm has also planted wildflower strips and adapted a ‘no mow’ policy in trial orchards to observe impact on predator populations, in partnership with the University of Worcester.
Writing on LinkedIn, Worldwide Fruit CEO, Steve Maxwell, said: “Myself and Hannah Mcilfatrick were delighted to accept the Supplier Award for Farming For Nature Engagement.
“This recognises the fantastic work of our amazing UK apple and pear growers and the Worldwide Fruit Limited team on our regenerative farming journey. Special thanks to Charlie Dunn who is at the forefront of this as our model farm, his energy and passion is infectious.”
Technical and procurement director at Worldwide Fruit, Tony Harding, said: “We aim to minimise impacts and work in harmony with the natural ecosystem and resources to preserve and enhance our fruit production environment.”
