Investing in the future of farming

We’ve been working with farmers for decades. And we’re committed to both their futures and the future of farming, which is why we are helping change farming for the better through our Farm Forward programme.

Progressive Young Farmers Programme

Every year we give up to nine young farmers the chance to spend 12 months getting to know every part of our supply chain, usually during their placement year. They follow our products from the farms we use, through to our restaurants and get the opportunity to work with a number of different suppliers, farmers and stakeholders around the country. The programme also includes mentoring by a farmer who supplies us with beef, chicken, potatoes, pork, dairy, fresh produce or eggs. Throughout the placement, Progressive Young Farmers will be expected to undertake specific projects to gain a better understanding of technical efficiency within the supply chain for five months, actively working on farm for a six-month period and spending a month at McDonald’s UK Head Office in London. The programme will focus on innovation and the future of the farming sector, including animal welfare, beef sustainability and efficient production, ensuring both commercial and environmental areas are addressed. Click here to apply.

Raising animal welfare standards

We know animal welfare is important to you. It’s also a big deal for us. As one of the biggest restaurant chains in the UK, we use our size to make a positive impact on the way animals are treated. We only deal with suppliers who meet our high standards.

We also only use organic semi-skimmed milk from UK dairy farms for all our teas, coffees and Happy Meal® milk bottles.

Protecting and restoring nature

We are committed to looking after nature, from protecting forests to promoting biodiversity and water management. And we are working with our farmers to help them use new technology and the latest research so they can not only protect but also restore nature on their farms.

Working towards net zero

At McDonald’s UK & Ireland, our ambition is to achieve net zero emissions by 2040 – from farms to restaurants. So we are investing in research and providing support to farmers to help them cut their carbon footprint – because together all the changes we make can add up to a lot.