Speaking ahead of the annual British Tomato Conference Phil Morley, Technical Officer for the British Tomato Growers Association, has told Hortidaily that the industry “Believe[s] the UK production of tomatoes will bounce back over the next 5 years.”
He says that despite a 10% reduction in production this year, growers are well placed to tackle a wide range of challenges, including rising production costs, crop protection challenges and the threats of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV).
“Increasing energy costs over the last couple of years and the unpredictability of the energy market has been one the greatest challenges, exacerbated by inadequate government support for the primary food production industry in this respect,” says Phil. “The Brexit process and subsequent impacts on the energy market, labour availability, and crop protection provision have been key areas that have put a strain on businesses. Combined with suppressed retail prices, the global presence of the Rugose virus, and the loss of a centralised mechanism for funding applied research in the sector has made for a difficult and challenging few years.”
He predicts a rebound in tomato production over the next five years: “Increased demand for sustainably produced locally grown food prioritising ongoing food security are just two drivers. Lots of indicators are very encouraging, including a significant investment in future food technologies as well as significant business investment in new facilities for protected cropping now happening in several parts of the country.”
The annual British Tomato Conference, set to take place on September 21 in Warwickshire, offers a platform for industry stakeholders to share experiences, network, and gain insights from expert speakers.
