Fischer Farms drawing big interest in new vertical farming facility

Engineering a circular UK food economy

Vertical farming specialist Fischer Farms said it is seeing “significant interest” from investors interested in its building of the world’s biggest high-yield facility in Norfolk. Retailers and suppliers have asked the company about their plans and how they too can get involved in the game-changing business, which officials said will produce more than six tonnes […]

How high inflation might impact table grape markets

Global table grape production likely to increase despite European losses

The high rate of inflation has become a major talking point over the last few months, with the prices of goods and services rising rapidly in major global economies. The Grape Reporter spoke with two experts from the US and the UK to get their views on how this could impact table grape sales in […]

Freshfel Europe asks for support for produce industry over Belarus embargo

Freshfel Europe calls for new policy approach to fresh fruits and vegetables

Freshfel Europe pressed European Union authorities to support the fresh produce sector because of continued restrictions resulting from the Belarus embargo. The embargo began at the beginning of the year, with at much as 500,000 tonnes of exports being compromised, including 300,000 from Poland, and between 10,000 to 60,000 tonnes from Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, […]

South Africa pear and apple exports looking strong this season

South African fruit group Hortgro says exports to UK will continue as planned

Global marketer and seller Vanguard International reports that the apple and pear crops look to be strong as the South Africa season gets underway. Bon Chretien Rosemarie, and Flamingo pears kicked off this year’s start three weeks ago and there is great optimism following a second consecutive great winter with water reserves being replenished. This […]

Research Perspective: Many Questions Remain About Branded Produce

Exchange rate challenge hits Italian grape exporter in UK market

Read the corresponding Research Perspective article Tell your authentic story and you will build brand love The idea that consumers will pay a premium for the branded produce they love is a break-through, but the research also shows that few consumers really connect with many produce brands. It is almost as if consumers yearn for a […]

Retail roundup: Aldi sees huge spike in vegan sales; Sainsbury’s increases Hub

Aldi UK officials say that plant-based item sales rose by 500% during the last month, affectionately known as Veganuary, as healthy eating trends continue two years after the start of the pandemic. Because of the increase in demand and a 250% boon in plant-based sales during 2021, Aldi stepped up its range of products by […]

Hundreds of jobs at risk as Tesco puts brakes on Jack’s stores, night work

In a stunning press release just a month into the new year and titled “Making Our Business Fit For the Future”, Tesco announced that it was closing seven of its Jack’s stores while converting the other six into Tesco superstores. Some 130 colleagues effectively may be out of jobs or may be offered “alternatives” due […]