One in Three British Berry Growers May Quit As Pressures Mount

A significant proportion — 34% — of British berry growers are contemplating either scaling back operations or leaving the sector altogether, according to a recent audit by British Berry Growers (BBG).

The audit highlights a stark reality: only 48% of growers report they are currently making a profit. Rising production costs — in labour, energy, packaging and transport — are placing heavy strain on the sector. BBG’s data suggests that if these trends continue, up to 40% of growers could exit the industry by the end of 2026.

Growers report that their relationships with retailers are being eroded, with 39% stating their dealings with supermarkets have “never been this bad”. With supermarkets dominating the supply chain, growers say weak price returns are failing to reward the increased cost base.

A Call To Action For The Industry

BBG chair Nick Marston described the audit findings as a “wake-up call” — warning that the future of British-grown strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries is “hanging in the balance”. The body is urging both retailers and government to act. Key asks include:

• Ensuring growers receive fair returns that reflect rising production costs.

• Extending the seasonal worker visa scheme from six to nine months to secure labour through the full season.

• Simplifying export procedures so UK growers can access opportunities beyond domestic supply.

The UK berry sector is valued at over £1.8 billion in retail sales and is responsible for supplying the vast majority of fresh berries consumed in the country. A large exit of growers would not only impact domestic supply but could reduce variety, increase import reliance and weaken the UK’s horticultural resilience.

While consumer demand for fresh berries remains strong, the challenges facing growers are real and urgent. If unaddressed, the industry may face consolidation or shrinkage.

For marketing professionals and retailers alike, this creates both a risk and an opportunity: risk in supply instability, and opportunity in championing British-grown provenance and sustainability narratives.

Source: Farmers Guardian