The website launch of a grower-led organization of sector stakeholders that aims to “defend the industry from threats and provide a flexible platform for innovation and growth” means that the efforts to fill the void left by AHDB Potatoes have progressed.
Archie Gibson, chief executive of certified seed supplier Agrico UK, has been acting as a facilitator to get GB Potatoes up and running. He explained to Farmers Weekly that there had been widespread concern among growers that the end of the AHDB Potatoes levy system might be counter to the interest of the sector.
“We are aiming to fill a potential gap by creating a respected voice for the industry that will communicate with government officials, politicians, and scientific advisory bodies,” Gibson mentioned.
The body would be funded by voluntary contributions from growers at a fraction of the cost of the AHDB levy. Gibson suggested that the rate would be 10GBP/ha for growers – about 80% lower than the 42.68GBP/ha levy rate paid previously to the AHDB.
The funds would be used to fight the industry’s corner with governments, coordinate research, development, and innovation, and maintain essential services such as blight and aphid monitoring which AHDB levy payers previously funded.
