Analysis proves UK apple growing is a “loss-making” industry
19th April 2023
An independent analysis, conducted by farm business consultants Andersons, showed the median cost of producing a kilo of British apples is now £1.26, exposing the true cost of production crisis facing UK apple growers.
Latest fruit research summarised in new publication from NIAB
6th April 2023
NIAB has published its first annual review summarising all the fruit related research and demonstration projects the crop research organisation is currently engaged in.
GKM offers £900k for sustainable innovation in food and drink sector
4th April 2023
In a new Business Sustainability Challenge, Growing Kent & Medway (GKM) is making £900,000 available for innovative horticultural, plant-based food and drink businesses with ideas to enhance sustainability in the sector.
Unprecedented pub closures continue to shake up UK drinks industry
30th March 2023
Latest statistics from CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) show that 21 pubs a week are closing for business in the UK and face an uncertain future, with customers tightening their belts and energy bills set to hit new highs from 1st April.
Genetic Technology Act unlocks new ground in plant breeding
24th March 2023
New legislative framework enabling the use of precision breeding technologies such as gene editing was granted Royal Assent yesterday (23rd March) and is set to accelerate the development of higher-yielding, more nutritious and climate-resilient crops in England.
Coventry University helps eco-friendly weed control business scale up
21st March 2023
An eco-friendly weed-killing system which uses electricity instead of harmful chemicals to treat orchards and vineyards is set to go to market after support from Coventry University.
An increase in homegrown fruit and veg could add £0.5bn to the economy say scientists
13th March 2023
As the UK reels from recent fruit and vegetable shortages, scientists are advising how to increase homegrown produce – benefitting the economy and the environment.
Frost protection for flowering fruit crops
6th March 2023
A natural plant biostimulant is helping to minimise or eliminate crop damage caused by late frosts, by stimulating the production of natural plant Anti-Freeze Protein (AFP) in flowering fruit crops
NFU launches horticulture growth strategy against the backdrop of empty shelves
1st March 2023
As the nation continues to grapple with shortages of fresh fruit and vegetables, the NFU has today (1st March) launched its growth strategy for UK horticulture, which could be the solution to minimising future supply chain disruption if backed by government.
UK top fruit crisis set to cause further shortages as industry hangs “on a knife edge”
27th February 2023
British consumers are set to suffer further food shortages as more apple and pear growers are forced to dig up orchards and pursue other avenues over unsustainable returns from retailers.
British fruit and veg could be rationed this year as growers battle high energy prices
22nd February 2023
NFU president Minette Batters has called for greater support for the horticulture sector, warning that a range of British fruit and vegetables could be in short supply this year.
GKM research vouchers up to £15,000 awarded to innovative businesses
21st February 2023
Growing Kent & Medway (GKM) has awarded a total of £154,000 funding in the form of research vouchers to 11 horticulture, food and drink businesses for projects aiming to overcome sustainability challenges.
