Top four retailer Morrisons is partnering with the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) to develop joint education, research and training initiatives that could benefit the wider farming industry.
Announced at a House of Commons event yesterday, the long-term partnership will see RAU students take up work placements at Morrisons, while the retailer will gain direct access to RAU graduates as well as the university’s research expertise.
“Over time this partnership has the potential to yield information which will be relevant to the wider agricultural industry across the world,” said RAU principal, Professor Chris Gaskell. “This is an exciting and unique project and we look forward to producing results for the benefit of the whole supply chain.”
Morrisons group corporate services director, Martyn Jones, said: “We at Morrisons are keen to develop sustainable practices, and the RAU has the specialist resources and commitment that will help to improve the Morrisons business through innovation and the development of best practice.
“We have long held an interest in British farming and the partnership with the RAU will further reinforce this commitment.”
The UK’s fourth largest retailer has already pledged to create up to five annual fully-funded postgraduate internships for RAU students across the food supply chain, and said it will provide further work experience opportunities.
Gaskell added: “The partnership directly involves our students, offering experience with a potential employer and valuable first-hand experience in the commercial food supply chain. In terms of the benefits and impact for our agricultural students and graduates this is a remarkable initiative, and one which grow to the benefit of everyone.”
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