Marks & Spencer’s (M&S) sustainability initiative helped the company generate £160 million in the last 12 months.

It set out 100 revised and existing commitments to meet by the end of the decade as part of its so-called ‘Plan A 2020’ in June last year.

The company has reported “strong progress”, with 47 commitments achieved so far.

They include a 36% rise in energy efficiency in its UK stores, offices and warehouses, with LED lighting installed in 417 facilities and the installation of the UK’s largest single roof mounted solar array at one of its distribution centres.

Almost a third of the cotton used to make M&S products comes from “more sustainable sources” and the company has cut the amount of packaging for home deliveries by 60% against a 2009 baseline.

It has also set out five priorities for the next 12 months which includes engaging customers and communities in Plan A activities and improving transparency.

Mike Barry, Director of Plan A said: “Plan A 2020 is delivering a better M&S.

“It is equipping us for the future and helping us deliver exceptional products and services for our customers. The report shows that we have much to be proud of but it also shows how long our ‘to do’ list is if we’re to become a truly sustainable business.”

Last month M&S reaffirmed its commitment to source 100% of its energy from renewables.