British Flower Growers Win Official Recognition With New SIC Code

British cut flower growers are celebrating a major milestone after the introduction of a dedicated Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code for flower farming businesses, announced during last week’s Chelsea Flower Show.

The move means cut flower growers can now be identified separately from other agricultural and horticultural businesses in official government data — a development that industry leaders say could have significant long-term benefits for the sector.

Industry association Flowers from the Farm said the new classification could help strengthen future research into the environmental and biodiversity contribution of British flower farming, particularly around Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) measures.

The dedicated SIC code was backed by Liberal Democrat Rural Affairs spokesperson Sarah Dyke, who has worked alongside growers and the association to push for formal recognition from the Treasury.

She said: “I have been proud to work with growers and Flowers from the Farm to press the Treasury to properly recognise this sector. Securing a dedicated SIC codes means their contribution can finally be measured, supported and championed.

“These are businesses that not only create jobs and drive local growth but also enhance biodiversity and support more sustainable land use. It is only right that their work is recognised at the heart of government, and I will continue to make the case for the support they deserve.”

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Flowers from the Farm represents more than 1,000 British growers, with women accounting for around 80 per cent of its membership. The organisation estimates the industry contributes approximately £30 million each year to the UK economy through wholesale and retail flower sales, events and related business activities.

External Chair Georgie Newbery described the new classification as a transformational moment for the industry.

“Getting this SIC code means that not only can we prove how much flower growers are putting into the British economy but that we’re in a position to be acknowledged and encouraged by government, because we finally exist!” she said.

“And the most important thing is that we can now look at the biodiversity net gain protocol, which will give us protection. The SIC code also allows us to lobby for more, and if we can lobby for more, then it will be much, much clearer for consumers that the flowers that they are buying are British grown.”

Newbery also highlighted the wider environmental and employment benefits of domestic flower production.

“BNG systems are often focused on setting land aside. Flower farming works the land and sustains employment. The socio-economic benefits ride high alongside the biodiversity possibilities,” she added.

With formal recognition now secured, Flowers from the Farm says its next priorities include developing qualifications for young people entering the sector, creating clearer pathways between aspiring growers and landowners, and expanding the supply of high-quality British-grown flowers to meet rising consumer demand for more sustainable products.

For the UK floriculture sector, the new SIC code is being viewed as far more than an administrative change — it is a sign that British flower growers are finally gaining recognition as a distinct and valuable part of the nation’s fresh produce and horticultural economy.