McDonald’s UK becomes 1st retailer to back Nuffield Scholar
McDonald’s UK has become the first ever major retailer to enter into a partnership with the Nuffield Farming Trust.
McDonald’s UK has become the first ever major retailer to enter into a partnership with the Nuffield Farming Trust. Announced at this year’s Oxford Farming Conference, the exclusive agreement is further testament of its support for the UK farming industry, in which the iconic brand relies so heavily upon.
The McDonald’s Nuffield Farming Scholarship will mirror the traditional programme, with a ‘Global Focus Tour’ included. McDonald’s encourages enthusiastic individuals to consider a scholarship which will see a study into their own choice in agriculture, land management, horticulture or the food chain. Recognised for its dedication in developing leadership in farming and the rural industries, the first ever McDonald’s scholar will embark on a programme that will identify new knowledge and apply practical knowledge, seeking profitable industry outputs.
Speaking at Oxford Farming Conference, Connor McVeigh McDonald’s UK Supply Chain Director said: “We make no secret of our reliance on a thriving farming sector which underpins our UK business, currently in its 38th consecutive quarter of growth. That success is down to an industry which involves brilliant people and minds and being the first UK retailer to sponsor a scholar is something we are infinitely proud of. This partnership further demonstrates our support of the sector and finding talent within it, critical in securing the future of farming within our UK shores.”
Helen Woolley, Director General, CLA and Nuffield Scholar Trustee also spoke about the partnership: “We were really impressed with the moves McDonald’s has made in demonstrating its commitment to the British farming sector. Becoming the first major retailer to support a scholar is testament to this even further and we are delighted to have them on board. Nuffield Farming Scholars are the most progressive and committed the industry has to offer and having a sponsor who is like minded, with such scale is really exciting. It is brilliant to see someone like McDonald’s supporting such a programme.”
Last year saw a series of big farming announcements from McDonald’s UK, including its commitment towards sourcing 100% British potatoes for the iconic French Fries. This was followed by an extension of its Progressive Young Farmer programme, now in its fourth year. Offering a further year placement to one student in the arable sector, the pioneering training scheme offers young people a unique opportunity to experience the entire farming and food supply chain covering pork, beef and dairy. Each student is mentored by one of the UK’s most progressive farmers and offered first-hand experience of practical farming and business management as they trace the supply chain of McDonald’s ingredients, from farms and processors to the restaurant front counter.
Potential McDonald’s Nuffield Farming scholars are encouraged to find out how they can expand their knowledge and understanding by visiting www.nuffieldscholar.org
