AHDB has committed to transferring £1.8 million of leftover potato levy reserves to GB Potatoes as part of a deal to fund seven vital industry projects.
These initiatives will address key challenges, including potato blight, aphid monitoring, and nutrient management.
The funding stems from reserves held by AHDB following the closure of AHDB Potatoes, which ceased operations after a 2021 grower vote to end the statutory levy. GB Potatoes, established in 2022, secured the grant through an agreement aimed at strengthening the sector.
Scott Walker, Chief Executive of GB Potatoes, hailed the funding as a significant step forward for an industry facing numerous challenges. “This grant will kickstart new initiatives and galvanise existing projects that have previously operated on an annual, uncertain basis," he said.
"It offers a foundation to transform key industry projects and develop a sustainable, industry funded model for initiatives that are critical to the future of the potato sector.
"We are delighted that GB Potatoes has successfully secured the residual levy funds through a grant from AHDB to support projects for the benefit of the entire potato industry.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for the potato industry to now take control of its future and influence the direction of the sector by addressing industry obstacles and building resilience.”
The £1.8 million grant will be distributed over three to five years, with funding tapered as GB Potatoes increases voluntary contributions from within the industry. Of the total, £400,000 is reserved for any remaining liabilities associated with AHDB Potatoes' previous operations.
AHDB CEO Graham Wilkinson expressed his support, stating, “we are pleased to be able to support growers and the wider industry by releasing these residual funds for projects that will significantly contribute to the industry’s success.”
The Funded Projects
The grant will support seven projects targeting critical issues within the potato sector:
Potato Blight Project: Monitoring genetic shifts and fungicide sensitivity to address the persistent threat of blight.
Aphid Monitoring Project: Providing industry-wide data to improve decision-making through national aphid monitoring.
Virus Management Tools: Joining forces with Horticulture Crop Protection (HCP) to sustain high-grade seed production.
Reputational Management: Enhancing the sector's image with proactive crisis management, influencer engagement, and media strategies.
Information Gap Bridging: Delivering transparent, reliable data on potato cultivation, varieties, and national yield figures.
CIPC Residue Monitoring: Collecting and submitting data on chlorpropham (CIPC) residues to ensure continued use of potato storage facilities.
Nutrient Management Update (RB209): Modernising fertiliser recommendations to reflect new technologies and practices.
These projects are expected to provide a solid foundation for addressing current challenges and ensuring the long-term success of the UK potato industry.
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