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British Tomato Growers’ Association: outlook for 2024

Key Challenges for tomato growers in the UK

The outlook for 2024 for the British Tomato Growers' Association (BTGA) remains promising, the organization promises. In 2023, the association underwent significant positive transformations, marked by strategic enhancements, the formation of a new BTGA team, improved approaches to industry crop protection, and the advancement of the impactful British Tomato Fortnight campaign. The momentum gained during this period is set to continue shaping 2024 as the association strives to support, represent, and empower British tomato grower members amidst ongoing challenges.

Emphasizing a member-focused strategy, the BTGA is dedicated to keeping grower members at the core of its activities in 2024. The goal is to provide greater delivery, value, and visibility, addressing key concerns and challenges through representation in research, cross-sector collaboration, government consultation, and more. This approach aims to ensure the voices and experiences of growers are heard while enhancing access to opportunities for business sustainability, development, and growth.

Noteworthy changes in leadership occurred in 2023, with the appointment of Simon Conway as the new Chair, bringing extensive experience and understanding of the protected sector. However, the association bid farewell to Julie Woolley, the valued Company Secretary, who retired after over 20 years of commitment. The commitment of Paul Faulkner as the well-practiced treasurer and Company Secretary ensures continued support.

Paul Falkner during the 2023 British Tomato Conference

In the technical domain, Phil Pearson stepped down as Chair of the BTGA Technical Committee, making way for Roly Holt and Robert James as new Co-Chairs, each bringing valuable knowledge and experience to the role.

Addressing key challenges faced by tomato growers in the UK, the BTGA actively leads the Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) Working Group, collaborating with stakeholders and working towards robust, resistant tomato varieties. Other challenges include navigating research and development funding alternatives, de-carbonization efforts, pest and disease threat responses, and adapting to changes in plant health inspections.

"Established and led by the BTGA, the Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) Working Group provides a discussion forum for industry and direct technical support alongside an online portal of resources. ToBRFV continues to be a huge challenge for the global tomato industry. Working with policymakers (DEFRA/PHSI/APHA), research scientists at Fera Science Ltd, and international seed houses, we are gradually moving into a transition phase towards robust, resistant tomato varieties. With the understanding and support of UK retailers providing acceptable alternatives to consumers, we will get to a more sustainable situation regarding this economically damaging disease", they share.

Diving into the Research & Development funding alternatives, the establishment of a protected edibles cross-sector industry R&D working group is underway to help navigate possible funding solutions and frameworks in place of the AHDB Horticulture statutory levy.

Then, there's de-carbonization. "We have research involvement and a role in steering work in the area of net zero, energy, and automation for the sector through projects such as GrowSave." Also, in pest and Disease threat response, the organization is active. "We represent the industry through the promotion of key industry agendas and consultation responses, including the recent key Defra case study on Bemisia tabaci control in the UK."

A recent challenge is provided by the new Plant Health inspection changes (Border Control Points). "With industry colleagues, we lobby with the NFU to ensure no delays or danger to plants en route to nurseries from propagators."

Notable events in 2024 include the British Tomato Fortnight from May 27th to June 9th and the Conference on September 26th. The association aims to build on the success of the 2023 campaign, engaging with various stakeholders to promote the British tomato.

To enhance member interaction, the BTGA has introduced a monthly newsletter, complemented by social media activities and a new LinkedIn page. These initiatives prioritize ongoing transparency, keeping members informed about current agendas, research activities, policy changes, and industry news. The association remains committed to championing the British tomato and ensuring its members are well-informed.

For more information:
British Tomato Growers Association
www.britishtomatoes.co.uk

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