Marks & Spencer has unveiled RE:Spark, a renewable‑energy programme created with Schneider Electric to help suppliers transition to cleaner electricity as part of the retailer’s Plan A sustainability strategy.

The initiative targets high‑impact regions in M&S’s global fashion supply chain and is set to expand over the next three years.

Suppliers will gain access to a digital hub to upload emissions data, track progress and explore tailored clean‑energy options. The programme includes regional briefings, webinars and advisory support, and will help factories collaborate on power‑purchase agreements to bring down costs.

Katharine Beacham, head of sustainability and materials in fashion, home and 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.”

RE:Spark builds on M&S’s existing environmental work in manufacturing. The retailer has expanded use of the Higg Facility Environmental Module across tier 1 finished goods facilities and tier 2 wet processing sites, with verified emissions data feeding into Scope 3 calculations.

M&S also engages suppliers through training and review sessions, and has funded participation in the Apparel Impact Institute’s Carbon Leadership Programme to assess energy use, improve efficiency and shift to lower‑carbon fuels.

On circularity, M&S’s Another Life platform brings together rewear, repair, recycle and resale initiatives. Partnerships with eBay and Reskinned allow customers to trade in pre‑loved items via an online takeback scheme and shop pre‑loved M&S clothing, footwear and accessories through the M&S x eBay store, with proceeds supporting Oxfam.

M&S says the initiatives support its ambition to reshape for sustainable, profitable growth and become a net zero business by 2040.

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