Retailer also considers breast cancer line
Marks & Spencer and Shell Foundation have formed a partnership to set up a supply chain initiative in Africa and other developing countries.

The anti-poverty scheme was revealed by M&S chief executive Stuart Rose last night at the Business in the Community's Awards for Excellence in London.

Rose added that the retailer is considering introducing lingerie for women who have had breast cancer surgery. M&S still accounts for a quarter of the UK lingerie market and Rose believes the move would demonstrate a strong customer commitment.

In Africa, the partnership will invest in up to three supply chains, with the aim of delivering products to M&S stores. Its first scheme will target more than 3,000 South African wild flower growers. Over the coming year, M&S and Shell Foundation will be providing business and environmental management help.

'We could triple sales of our wild flowers with the right supply chain,' said Rose.

A fortnight ago, M&S announced that its Café Revive outlets would sell only Fairtrade tea and coffee.