Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC)

FIVE YEARS ON: FOOD INDUSTRY IN CRISIS AS BREXIT BARRIERS BITE! “The industry and UK consumers are yet to see the widespread and significant financial impact on fruit and veg imports from the EU commencing July 25. "It’s deeply frustrating, as we’ve offered effective solutions. However, the previous and current governments simply ignore our fundamental concerns and the avoidable widespread impact on imports, exports and UK horticultural production." ~Nigel Jenney, Chief Executive, Fresh Produce Consortium. Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/eRUxgf7t #Brexit #UKFoodExports #UKSupplyChain

ARE YOU READY? From 31 January 2025, all EU imports into Great Britain will require Safety and Security declarations. Safety and Security declarations support the fight against illicit goods such as drugs and weapons entering the UK and make sure legitimate goods aren’t stopped for unnecessary checks. Hauliers or carriers are legally responsible for submitting Safety and Security declarations. HMRC are encouraging businesses to start submitting Safety and Security declarations now, if they are ready to do so. They’re also reducing the amount of data required to make things easier for businesses. If businesses are not ready, they should speak to their supply chains to check who is responsible and plan how declarations will be submitted. If businesses do not submit S&S declarations from 31 January, they could be issued with a financial penalty and goods could be held for unnecessary checks. You can find more information on the new requirements here: https://lnkd.in/echjJhyE

We know you've been extra good this year, so here's our CHRISTMAS GIFT TO YOU! Unwrap it by emailing: linda@freshproduce.org.uk 🎁

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR NEW BUYERS FOR YOUR FRESH PRODUCE? WE HAVE THE SOLUTION - AND IT'S A GREAT ONE! Find out more by emailing linda@freshproduce.org.uk

A MUST READ! From Brexit Hurdles to Workforce Shortages, Mike Parr, PML Seafrigo CEO UK & Ireland, talks exclusively to Freshtalk Daily editor, Sarah-Jayne Gratton, about the biggest challenges currently being faced by the logistics industry. Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/eaUAK5dp

The Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) demands urgent government intervention to tackle escalating border delays that are severely disrupting perishable imports. Partnering with the HTA, FPC warns that ongoing issues threaten supply chains, inflate costs, and risk the viability of UK businesses reliant on fresh produce. Immediate action is crucial. Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gYa6t999 #freshproduce #bordercontrol #supplychains #perishableimports

You may remember Reverend Richard Coles as the unforgettable host of the Fresh Awards 2022, bringing his unique blend of humour and charm to the stage. Now, Reverend Coles is off on a new adventure, heading into the Jungle as an I'm A Celebrity... 2024 campmate!   With Reverend Coles taking on Bushtucker Trials, we're thrilled to announce that the Fresh Awards 2025 will be in equally iconic hands. Next year, the legendary cricket commentator Jonathan 'Aggers' Agnew will be stepping up as our compere. Get ready for a night filled with wit, charm, and plenty of unforgettable moments as we go ‘batting for excellence,’ celebrating the very best of our industry.   Entries and table bookings will be open from 1st January 2025 — it's time to start planning for an incredible night! https://lnkd.in/dv79rMKQ

The move towards peat-free #horticulture is driven by environmental concerns, as peat extraction contributes to carbon emissions and habitat degradation. However, the transition presents practical difficulties. While some progress has been made, a significant portion of the industry remains reliant on peat-based products for growing and propagation. Industry experts have raised concerns about the readiness of the sector to meet proposed #peatban deadlines. They argue that a phased approach is necessary to allow for the development and adoption of reliable peat-free alternatives that meet the needs of #growers and consumers alike. What are your thoughts? Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/eeBMyz_E

What does George Freeman’s new role mean for UK #horticulture? 🌱 With George Freeman now chairing the Agri-Tech Parliamentary Group, how will this impact #innovation and policy for UK horticulture? Will we see greater support for tech adoption across the industry? Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/epjUJKr6

BUDGET BETRAYAL WILL 'STRANGLE' OUR FOOD AND FLOWER SECTORS The industry has reacted with outrage to the Chancellor's budget announcement that inheritance tax relief for farms will be capped at £1 million. Nigel Jenney, Chief Executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium (FPC) voiced his dismay and frustration saying: "How does the Government expect to feed and promote the wellbeing of the nation? On one hand, they claim to be working to strengthen the backbone of UK horticultural production. Yet, on the other, they've imposed a UK border strategy so inefficient and costly that it’s strangling our ability to import vital food and flowers. "How are we supposed to support struggling consumers and strengthen our own home-grown production under these condition? A workable solution is long overdue," Jenney said. #AutumnBudget #Farming #Horticulture #InheritanceTax