The 'Raspberry Economics in Production' project has secured £1m in funding from UK Research and Innovation's (UKRI) Innovate UK programme to enhance the sustainability of raspberry farming in the UK.
The industry faces significant challenges, including rising production and labour costs, along with fewer pest and disease control options. To address these issues, the project aims to develop raspberry varieties that require less water, fertiliser, and labour to cultivate.
Over the past two years, growers have seen their costs increase by 25%, while retail returns have stagnated at 0%. Despite the consistent preference for the quality of UK-grown fruit, consumer buying habits are driven by price, with imported fruit being cheaper and therefore selling in larger quantities.
Dr Julie Graham, who leads the project at The James Hutton Institute, commented: “The UK raspberry industry is at a critical crossroads. While growers face rising costs, competition is increasing from cheaper imports. Add the pressure brought about by climate change, and it paints a bleak picture.
“We’ll utilise cutting-edge genetic technology to develop varieties more resistant to climate change, which require fewer resources to grow. The project aims to safeguard the future of the industry while also supporting rural economies and the environment.”
By employing cutting-edge techniques such as genomics, transcriptomics and phenomics, the project will identify and incorporate traits in raspberries that enhance cost efficiency and climate adaptability.
The James Hutton Institute, known for breeding popular raspberry varieties like Glen Ample, will continue to build on its expertise through collaboration with a consortium of key partners.
Peter Thomson of Thomas Thomson Blairgowrie Ltd said: “Working in partnership with the Hutton on this project is vital for the future of raspberry production in the UK.
The project is further supported by Berryplants Ltd, Dole UK Ltd, The Asplins Producer Organisation Ltd, Angus Soft Fruits Ltd, and the Institute’s commercial arm, James Hutton Limited (JHL).
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