State of Blueberry report shows shifts in UK imports, dire straits for domestic growers

Blueberry exports from South Africa expected to increase by 20 per cent

The International Blueberry Organization unveiled its highly anticipated 2023 State of the Global Blueberry Industry report on Aug. 15, via a live presentation. The analysis thoroughly examines the sector’s challenges and strengths, confirming a shift in production towards the counter season. “Sometime either in 2023 or 2024, the industry will see more fresh volumes shipped […]

Brakes embraces Love British Food campaign to put much-needed spotlight on local growers

Foodservice wholesaler Brakes is putting its marketing strength behind British growers with a new campaign that highlights locally produced, seasonal food. Brakes is embracing Love British Food as it kicks off this month with a new spot on its website that showcases supplier stories and how consumers and caterers can use fresh British ingredients in […]

Tesco’s full network of UK growers achieve LEAF Marque standard

All of Tesco’s UK-based fruit and vegetable growers are LEAF-Marque certified, setting a high bar on sustainability that should carry through for generations. The nearly 500 growers have committed to strong climate standards that include ensuring soil health, limiting carbon emissions and preventing deforestation. In addition, they’ve fostered biodiversity across their farms. “Reaching this significant […]

Blistering heat scorching fruits and vegetables across UK

The UK heatwave has caused fruit and vegetables to die on the vine as growers fear the drought and further hot temperatures could ruin harvests this year. Fruit and vegetable suppliers have been counting their losses after record temperatures in July caused crops to fail, according to a report by The Guardian. “It’s not just fruit […]

South Africa concludes record table grape season, though UK down slightly

South Africa forecasts lower table grape crop for 2017-18

South Africa’s 2021-22 table grape season has officially concluded, and the intakes reached a total of 77.7 million cartons (4,5kg equivalent), marking a 4% year-on-year increase, the SATI industry body said. When comparing regional performance to the 2020-21 season, the Orange River and Hex River regions displayed the highest volumes inspected with an increase of […]

British Summer Fruits has been rebranded in homage to growers

British Summer Fruits has a new name in time for the summer: the organisation that represents the majority of commercial soft fruit growers is now, fittingly, British Berry Growers. Along with the new brand, the industry’s berry backer wants to ensure its seasonal offerings comprise 100% of the market and for its exports to surpass […]

UK Grower of the Year? FPC Fresh Awards will honour one in July

Perhaps at no point in recent memory has there been a more challenging time to be a grower in the UK – with the COVID-19 pandemic, rising costs, labour shortage and weather that has been especially fickle wreaking havoc on farmers and their crops. But the best of the best have shined through, and the […]