Balancing Business and Environmental Sustainability was the central theme of the British Tomato Conference 2024, organized by the British Tomato Growers' Association. The event took place yesterday in Warwickshire, UK, bringing together growers, suppliers, allied industries, retailers, and researchers. It featured a comprehensive conference program alongside a trade exhibition.
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The British tomato industry has faced significant challenges over the past few years. While the energy crisis has eased somewhat and Rugose-resistant varieties are being introduced by nearly every seed house, these issues remain pressing for UK growers. Both topics were addressed at this year's event. Read more about the morning sessions here.
As highlighted in presentations by Lee Hyde (SaveMoneyCutCarbon), Jonathan Scurlock, and Eirinn Rusbridge (NFU Energy), there are viable ways to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in horticulture. However, balancing this with maintaining profitability is a challenge that keeps many growers awake at night. Jeremy Kerswell discussed connecting the next generation to the horticultural industry, while Clare Mike from LEAF spoke on sustainability, demonstrating how LEAF standards can help future-proof businesses. Andy Hipwell from HSBC updated growers on the bank's interest rate forecasts (which they predict will decrease) and reaffirmed HSBC's commitment to expanding their agricultural activities.
A key takeaway from the conference came from Martin Emmett, chair of the NFU Horticulture and Potatoes Board, who urged growers to engage with their local MPs. With 335 new MPs elected to Parliament this year and 300 re-elected, Martin emphasized that many of them are unfamiliar with horticulture. If growers want their voices heard, they need to actively communicate the importance and needs of the industry.
More to follow next week - but first it's picture time!
Click here for the photo report