Duchy Originals has joined forces with Waitrose in an exciting and groundbreaking partnership which will cement its position as one of the country's leading organic and free-range food brands.

The new licensing and distribution agreement - the first of its kind ever undertaken by Waitrose - will significantly increase the charitable donations made by Duchy Originals as Britain's fastest-growing supermarket invests in and develops the brand.

The partnership gives Waitrose, Duchy Originals' largest and most long-standing client, the exclusive right to originate, manufacture, distribute and sell Duchy Originals products in the UK. Waitrose, whose aim is to expand the range from the current 200 products to around 500, will pay a royalty to Duchy Originals on all wholesale and retail sales.

Both companies are confident that increased investment in the development of Duchy Originals will achieve sufficient sales growth over the next 10 years to generate a substantial increase in the royalties going to charity. To date, Duchy Originals has donated almost £7million to charitable causes throughout the UK and overseas.

For customers, the partnership means that Duchy Originals products will continue to be sold in all 214 Waitrose branches throughout the country, with new lines being introduced from Spring 2010.

Waitrose will also sell Duchy Originals products wholesale, enabling independent and family-run stores and restaurants to continue to stock and sell the brand. The Duchy Originals brand will continue to promote sustainability and organic produce.

Andrew Baker, Chief Executive of Duchy Originals, said:

''This is a hugely important moment for Duchy Originals. This new partnership will take our pioneering company to the next level, accelerating the growth of the brand, and amplifying its voice as a champion of sustainably grown and produced food from the UK.

''Because of our constitution, and the fact that we are owned by a charity, Duchy Originals has never been able to build up reserves for investing in future growth. Instead, Duchy Originals has given all its profits to The Prince's Charities Foundation. This has been very successful, with almost £7million donated. But now is the time to make the next step and this agreement is the best way for us to realise our growth ambitions. This is a deal where everyone wins - it is good for Duchy Originals, good for Waitrose, good for our consumers and good for charity.''

Mark Price, Managing Director of Waitrose, said today:

''This is a match made in heaven, creating a partnership with a shared passion for quality food, sustainable farming, excellent relationships with suppliers and for charitable giving.'' ''Duchy Originals' products have always been firm favourites with our customers and we now have the opportunity to develop the range into the definitive premium, sustainable British food brand.

''Our plan is to make Waitrose a food democracy and today's announcement signals to customers that they can come to us for the most comprehensive everyday to gourmet food range in the UK''

Notes to Editors
About Duchy Originals
Duchy Originals Ltd was established by HRH The Prince of Wales in 1990 to promote organic food and farming and to help protect and sustain the countryside and wildlife. Today Duchy Originals is one of the UK's leading organic and sustainable food companies, producing a range of over 200 products from biscuits to preserves and gifts to garden seeds. All profits are donated - almost £7m so far - to The Prince's Charities Foundation. Duchy Originals supports a wide variety of projects from the environment, to health, arts and education.

About Waitrose
Waitrose has 214 branches across Britain, dedicated to offering quality, value and customer service. The retailer and its sister company, John Lewis, have taken the two top slots in the Which? Magazine Consumer Satisfaction Survey for the last four years and Waitrose has scooped more major wine awards than any other supermarket. Co-owned entirely by its 44,000 'Partners' , Waitrose combines the convenience of a supermarket with the expertise and service of a specialist shop. Waitrose is dedicated to offering quality food that has been responsibly sourced, combined with high standards of customer service.

For more information go to www.waitrose.com

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