IBIS Rice, a Cambodian conservation rice brand, backed by renowned conservationist, Chris Packham, today announces a momentous step forward as they partner with sustainable retailer, Abel & Cole. The full range of IBIS Rice products will launch on Abel & Cole from 15th May. This latest partnership, much like the backing of Chris Packham, speaks volumes about IBIS Rice as a brand.
IBIS Rice is a business with purpose as it directly supports farmers in Cambodia who are involved in preventing deforestation and protecting indigenous wildlife. These farmers sign up to a program of organic agriculture, zero deforestation and zero poaching and are paid a 70% premium for their crops. IBIS Rice manages all the packing and processing in Cambodia to keep the added value in the rural communities before selling it directly to the UK. It is a paddy to plate brand, and demonstrates how rethinking supply chains can result in value for the customers, and a sustainable future for farmers and wildlife.
Nicholas Spencer, CEO of IBIS Rice Conservation Co. commented: “We are absolutely thrilled to have partnered with Abel & Cole. It is not an understatement to say that their values perfectly align with those of IBIS Rice. As we look to grow the business here in the UK, while supporting Cambodian farmers, and protecting indigenous wildlife, this is a dream partnership for us.”
Ed Ayton, Sustainability & Ethics Advisor, Abel & Cole, added: “With their tireless efforts to reduce deforestation, help endangered species, and improve the quality of life for thousands of small farmers, Ibis Rice is a truly special brand for us to partner with. We’re incredibly proud to help them launch in the UK, and, when they hear the incredible story, our customers will be too.”
Voted the best rice in the world five times at the World Rice Forum, IBIS Rice is grown by Cambodian farmers who are an integral part of the business. The IBIS Rice farmers grow a local variety of long grain jasmine rice known as phka rumdoul, which is available as rice grain, either white, brown, or semi-milled; puffed into rice cakes and popped into a breakfast cereal.
