The Soil Association is holding a training event to discuss ways to run a competitive vegetable box scheme. It will be held on Friday 5 July at Coleshill Organics – an organic vegetable farm in Swindon, Wiltshire.

Although the number of box schemes operating in the UK has risen dramatically over the past 10 years, many schemes have struggled to be profitable in the face of growing competition – particularly from supermarkets.

Key issues to be discussed include planning the range of crops to be grown and maintaining quality and freshness of produce, keeping a customer base and organising deliveries.

Talks will be led by Pete Richardson, who is in charge of the growing for Coleshill's successful box scheme, and Rob Haward, the Soil Association's Horticulture Manager.

Coleshill's customer base has grown by over 30% in the past two years due to thoughtful marketing and increased diversity. Around 70 varieties of produce are grown in Coleshill's seven-acre walled-garden and at a 15-acre site three miles away. In the afternoon there will be a chance to walk around the holding and discuss any practical and technical issues that have arisen.

The cost is £39 (Soil Association licensees and producer members) and £56 (non-members). There is a £4 discount for bookings made at least 14 days in advance.

To book a place or for more information, contact Angela Wescott on 0117 987 4587.