M&S has announced a commitment with the Yeyasso cooperative in Côte d’Ivoire to support cocoa farmers from one of its main suppliers in West Africa.

The initiative will see the retailer provide ‘Fairtrade Premium’ support to Yeyasso, which will give additional payment directly to farmers.

The community scheme has helped contribute to projects such as building schools and solar water pumps, training to grow healthier crops and buying tools for pruning and spraying.

As part of the deal, M&S will see a financial investment over two years to improve livelihoods within the region.

Lucinda Langton, head of sustainability at M&S Food said: “At M&S we believe that every person in our supply chain should be paid fairly; cocoa farmers are under pressure to adapt to changing environments and growing demand for exceptional quality. That’s why we are increasing our commitment to fair and ethical sourcing with this investment with the Yeyasso cooperative.

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“This long-term commitment means the cooperative can invest in their communities and adapt to changing weather patterns to protect the future of cocoa crops for generations of farmers to come.”

These funds will ensure the farmers can plan ahead in a volatile landscape amid climate change and income fluctuation with changing prices.

Additionally, the M&S Choc Marks bars will now display female farmer Diomandé Léontine on the inside of the packaging to showcase the farmers’ part of the production process.

Kerrina Thorogood, partnerships director at Fairtrade Foundation: “Their commitment to sourcing from Yeyasso for three years and supporting the Fairtrade Living Income Programme is already making a difference for Yeyasso’s farmers and their communities.

“We’re grateful for M&S’ continued support for Fairtrade and trust in pioneering new initiatives.”