Summer Berry And Greosn Shine Bright At FPC Fresh Awards 2025
- Sarah-Jayne Gratton
- Sep 30
- 3 min read
When the horticulture world gathered under the chandeliers of London’s JW Marriott Grosvenor House on 26 September, the air buzzed with anticipation.
At the heart of the evening lay two standout victories: The Summer Berry Company being named UK Grower of the Year, and greosn seizing the top prize of Fresh Produce Business of the Year at the FPC Fresh Awards 2025.
From Berry Fields To The Spotlight: Summer Berry’s Ascent
Sussex-based grower The Summer Berry Company (TSBC) had been shortlisted in no fewer than five award categories, ranging from Sustainability – Ethical to Agritech Excellence, International Supplier of the Year, and Technology Champion. But it was their excellence on home soil that caught the judges’ eye: they were awarded UK Grower of the Year 2025.
Helen Wilson, TSBC’s Corporate Services Director, captured the spirit of the triumph, saying:
“We are incredibly proud to be recognised at the FPC Fresh Awards. This achievement reflects the dedication of our people, our commitment to sustainable and ethical growing, and our drive to innovate and continually improve. It’s a huge honour to stand alongside so many inspiring businesses from across the fresh produce sector.”
For TSBC, this accolade is not just a trophy—it underscores years of investment in sustainable practices, precision farming, and a people-centred culture that strives for year-round quality.
Greosn’s Crowning Moment: “Winner Of Winners”
Meanwhile, greosn, a global investment and holding group with deep roots in horticulture, claimed the evening’s highest honour: Fresh Produce Business of the Year—the so-called “winner of winners,” drawn from category winners in supply chain, retail, and business excellence.
As part of the group’s wider success, brands within greosn’s portfolio also enjoyed recognition—Varfell Farms took the Supermarket Floral & Plant Supplier accolade, and Pro Force’s Rebecca Emery won Manager of the Year.
Matt Jarrett, greosn’s Group CEO, put it simply: “This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team. … We’re not just about growing our business; we are cultivating partnerships based on trust, innovation, and purpose-driven practices.”
The judges commended greosn for its ambitious acquisition trajectory and unique approach to integration—“making exciting waves in the horticulture industry,” as one comment put it.
An Evening Of Industry Celebration (And Inspiration)
The FPC Fresh Awards, organised by the Fresh Produce Consortium, are widely regarded as one of the sector’s most prestigious gatherings—honouring excellence across sustainability, innovation, people, and business performance. Over 600 guests attended the 2025 ceremony, which was hosted by the much-loved TV presenter Chris Bavin.
Aside from TSBC and greosn’s victories, the evening featured other highlights:
Peter Durber of Tropifresh received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades of service in the UK exotics market
Dyson Farming was named Technology Champion of the Year for its pioneering agritech efforts
Thanet Earth received the inaugural Net Zero Impact Award in recognition of bold decarbonisation efforts
Nigel Jenney, FPC's Chief Executive, reflected on the night saying: “The FPC Fresh Awards are the ultimate celebration of the remarkable talent, innovation, and commitment that make our industry so extraordinary.”
Looking Ahead: What These Wins Signal
The dual success of TSBC and greosn is more than a moment of recognition—it signals where the industry is heading. The emphasis on sustainability, technology integration, supply chain coherence, and strong leadership is no longer niche—it’s central.
For TSBC, being crowned UK Grower of the Year paves the way for even more ambitious growth, both domestically and abroad. For greosn, the “winner of winners” title validates its bold strategy of consolidation and value creation across horticultural brands.
As the sector grapples with climate pressures, labour challenges, and evolving consumer demands, these awards underscore a hopeful message: in fresh produce, success in 2025 and beyond will belong to those who can grow responsibly, lead innovatively—and unite purpose with performance.
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