FoodNI links Crossgar potato farmer with Marks and Spencer
Freshly dug Queens potatoes have arrived on Marks & Spencer (M&S) shelves – all
22 stores in Northern Ireland and 16 stores in the Republic of Ireland – thanks to a
Crossgar farmer
M&S has partnered with AM Farming, a family-run business based in Crossgar, to
bring customers here the freshest, best-tasting local new season Queens potatoes.
AM Farming is run by Richard and Sharon Glover-Orr, alongside their children Alfie
(7) and Mia (4) – after whom the business is named. Richard is a fifth-generation
potato farmer, with family roots in potato farming stretching back to the townland of
Greyabbey.
The Queens variety has a long and proud history on the island of Ireland, known for
its unique dry matter quality, producing a fluffy, floury potato bursting with flavour.
Richard explained: “We want to feed people quality local produce. Queens should
never be washed as the goodness is in the skin – just brush off any excess soil,
power boil them, and roast them for the ultimate serve.”
Unlike some others who rush early harvests, M&S works with Richard to wait until
the optimal harvest window to ensure each potato delivers the signature floury
texture and light, fluffy taste that Queens are famous for.
Shaun Doherty, senior agronomist at M&S, added: “This is the ideal location to grow
Queens, and Richard’s generational knowledge makes him an expert. Queens come
into season three months earlier than other varieties, and their light fluffiness makes
them so special.”
The farm also grows oats, wheat, and beans as part of its sustainable approach to
soil health.
Richard is committed to protecting and enriching his land, explaining: “When I came
home to farm, we changed our approach to reduce cultivation. We brought in a
machine that prepares the soil in one pass instead of four, reducing carbon
emissions and protecting soil structure. We also grow cover crops over winter to hold
nutrients for the following crops. This helps protect the environment and keeps the
soil healthy for generations to come.”
Queens are harvested and handled entirely on Richard’s farm. He harvests the
potatoes himself, gently brushes them to remove excess soil, and packs them
directly on site before they are delivered to M&S stores – meaning no one else
touches the potatoes before the customer does.
Shaun added: “Richard’s produce impressed us from the outset – his ethos, passion,
and knowledge are clear. We encourage customers to try these Queens and follow
the cooking instructions on the pack to experience their ultimate flavour.”
The launch of AM Farming’s new season Queens potatoes is the result of a
successful supplier pitch at last year’s Balmoral Show, facilitated by FoodNI.
For Richard, it’s a proud family moment: “The realisation that this is going to be my
product on the shelf, with my picture on the bag, is really special. AM stands for Alfie
and Mia, so it’s something for my children too. We want M&S customers to lift their
first bag of Queens and say wow.”
