Extreme weather a key concern, blackcurrant growers tell MPs
30th January 2025
A new survey unveiled in a meeting between blackcurrant growers and MPs flagged extreme weather as a key threat in the next 5-10 years.
A new survey unveiled in a meeting between blackcurrant growers and MPs flagged extreme weather as a key threat in the next 5-10 years.
The survey of Ribena blackcurrant growers found 93% of respondents identified extreme weather as a primary concern.
Three quarters said they expect this to have the greatest impact on their businesses in the next five to 10 years.
Increasingly unpredictable conditions, from hotter summers to milder winters, are affecting harvests and long-term planning.
Despite the hurdles, however, growers are embracing new technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Nearly two-thirds are adopting advanced data management systems, over half are using robotics and automation and 40% are investing in renewable energy solutions.
Working with policymakers
The results were highlighted during a meeting, organised by Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I (SBF GB&I), which brought MPs together with their local blackcurrant growers.
The event was an opportunity to talk through challenges, as well as opportunities for innovation and investment.
Elise Seibold, chief operating officer at SBF GB&I comments: “Our blackcurrant growers’ survey is an invaluable tool for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the community of growers behind every bottle of Ribena.
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“Working closely with MPs and policymakers enables us to invest in innovative technologies and practices that enhance the farms we work with while safeguarding the environment we all live and work in.
“It’s a key part of our company value of Growing for Good, which guides everything we do at SBF GB&I.”
Growers are urging the government to take the following action:
- Backing innovation and R&D: Flexible funding and support for new technologies are crucial to maintaining competitiveness
- Reforming funding streams: Enhancements to the Sustainable Farming Incentive could make it more accessible to growers
- Improving access to grants: Support for new equipment, technology, and skills development is needed to drive sustainability and growth.
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