Colin Smith is to retire as chairman of the Assured Food Standards board, the body that operates the Red Tractor logo, after six years at its helm.

Smith will step down in the autumn after serving in the role for the maximum period allowed by the company's constitution. During his term in office, use of the Red Tractor logo has grown and now appears on £8bn worth of products. A successor has yet to be chosen.

"Under Colin's inspirational leadership, Red Tractor has become established as a trusted symbol for quality, conscientiously produced food and drink amongst retailers and consumers alike," said Stephen Robertson, director general of the BRC. "Its growth in the past few years has been particularly impressive."

Richard MacDonald, director general of the National Farmers' Union, added: "He has created a very solid base from which Red Tractor can further grow and develop ."

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