Marks and Spencer has relaxed its historically tight grip on its brand to licence a Severn Trent Water project. David Gregory, M&S head of food technology, said the move was one of many initiatives planned as the retailer seeks to reap benefits from its expertise in food and clothing. The Severn Trent strategic partnership is a water audit and advisory project called "Water Guardian". A logo with the words "Marks and Spencer ­ leading standards in food safety" will be used in the scheme to promote best practice in water standards to users such as food manufacturers. Gregory said: "We have been instrumental in setting new standards for the industry, and Water Guardian takes this a step further." {{NEWS }}