Marks & Spencer has vetted its advisers for their green credentials, group finance director Ian Dyson has revealed.

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In an interview in Accountancy Age today, Dyson says that prospective advisers are routinely questioned over their green credentials.

A recent ‘beauty parade’ of banking advisers saw M&S choose Morgan Stanley and Citigroup.

‘Their green credentials were a key part of [M&S’ decision],’ says Dyson. ‘Morgan Stanley and Citigroup said it was the first time they’d been asked about that, but to be fair both produced info about what they do.’

The moves are part of a concerted effort by the retailer to be more environmentally conscious. It is undertaking an ambitious transformation of its stores, supply chain, IT and finance, alongside a £200m scheme to make the company carbon neutral in the UK and Ireland by 2012.

It is also sourcing new eco-friendly fashion partners and embracing Fair Trade. ‘Nothing is done for just puritanical reasons,’ Dyson said. ‘But at the heart of it is a desire to make a difference.’

The company has completed a 16-month plan to roll out SAP financial systems, having previously operated with over 100 disparate finance systems.

To read the full interview click here