UK: British open field growers are not succumbing to pressure to supply the market

It has been a problematic season for British open field growers. Potatoes that should have been harvested weeks ago are still in the ground. And brassicas such as cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and white cabbage had a very poor start to the season with wet weather in July at planting time, which is in stark contrast to 2022 when it was very hot with up to 40ºC in some places. “The weather in Spain has also not been ideal, which combined with an early end to the British summer brassica season due to heavy rain, has left a gap in supply,” said Jack Ward, CEO of the British Growers Association. “This is the direct impact of climate change on the food supply chain, not just in the UK, but in Europe and further afield.” According to Jack, the growers have been supplying the market during the Christmas period for many years and are therefore very adept at dealing with the pressure. “What doesn't help are the discounts in the run-up to Christmas to stimulate purchases. Because they put ...