The Working Group for GB Potatoes, formed to bring the industry together to explore and develop it’s needs following the levy payer ballots have launched a new organisation for the GB potato crop, that will have strong links with the Horticulture sector.
In a statement issued by GB Potatoes, it says, it ‘Our approach, will brings cross industry stakeholders together through a voluntary subscription on a membership basis’.
This proposal has been put together by a group of potato industry stakeholders (GB Potatoes Working Group) interested to explore the opportunity for cross industry collaboration post the AHDB. Collectively the potato industry respects the outcome of the AHDB levy payer ballot but cannot afford to “look into a void” and recognises the need for a new independent industry body, to represent its interests and future development.
Mission – Bring the whole GB potato industry together and work with existing trade associations and industry bodies as a collective group to promote our sector’s interests.
‘Our vision brings all aspects of the GB Potato Supply Chain together – growers, packers, processors, seed supply, research organisations, independent advisors, trade associations and service providers etc to both contribute and benefit from voluntary cross-industry collaboration. The group proposes an “over-arching” structure that provides true all sector representation with good governance and accountability. We propose that a cross industry “Governing Body” will oversee this’.
‘We are NOT re-inventing the AHDB but believe there is mutual interest in fundamental research and protecting our industry. GB Potatoes needs to demonstrate its value and continue to improve its performance and remain competitive.
“We believe this proposal sets that in motion, Mark Taylor, Inaugural Chair of GB Potatoes said, “Our launch couldn’t come at a more important time for the GB Potato Industry. Working as a collective group must be the way forward if we are to both understand, and then work through the current turbulent times. Whilst recognising different views from across the industry, I strongly encourage everyone to engage and get involved. The Great British Potato needs to be championed!”
For more information on the organisation, please visit the website www.gb-potatoes.co.uk or alternatively email info@gb-potatoes.co.uk