Marks & Spencer has partnered with Ballymakenny Farm, a grower near Drogheda, Co. Louth, to supply a range of locally grown heritage potato varieties to stores across Ireland.
Ballymakenny Farm is operated by David and Maria Flynn, together with their son Daniel. David is a third-generation farmer, while Maria returned from a finance career in London to take up farming in her hometown.
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The initiative introduces Heritage Irish Potatoes to M&S shelves from September. Each bag is harvested, picked, and packed on the farm. The development followed Maria Flynn's decision to move away from conventional large-scale Rooster potato production to focus on distinctive heritage varieties, beginning with the purple Violetta potato. The farm has since established a presence supplying chefs and restaurants, before making the products available to retail customers.
According to Maria Flynn, the shift to heritage varieties was motivated by the need for alternative approaches on small-scale farms. "Introducing gourmet heritage potatoes gave us purpose. For small independent farms to be sustainable, we have to do something a bit different, exciting, and niche," she said.
As demand from hospitality businesses increased, Ballymakenny reduced its Rooster production and expanded its heritage range. With the agreement, customers will now be able to purchase these varieties through M&S stores.
The initial launch will feature the Purple Rain potato, followed by other varieties such as Pink Fir Apple, Red Emmalie, Mayan Gold, and Lily Rose, which will rotate throughout the season.
Shaun Doherty, Senior Agronomist at M&S, said the partnership allows the retailer to expand its offering of distinctive varieties. "Maria and David's commitment to quality and innovation impressed us immediately. Their selection of unique potatoes prioritises taste and specific characteristics over commercial yield," he said.
The potatoes will be available across all 16 M&S stores in Ireland, with all varieties grown, harvested, and packed on Ballymakenny Farm.
© Marks & SpencerFor more information:
Sasha Jeffrey / Naomi Finnegan
Marks & Spencer
Tel: +44 (0) 7801 254703
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
www.corporate.marksandspencer.com
