CEO Scott Walker says there is urgent need to strengthen seed availability but stresses significance of grant agreement between AHDB and GB Potatoes
This past year has flown by, and it seems each year becomes busier than the last. The last 12 months have not been without their challenges. Prolonged wet weather at the start of the year delayed planting for many, resulting in varied yields across the country. That said, the 2024 harvest proved to be much smoother than the previous year in most potato-growing areas, offering some welcome relief.
This all takes place against the backdrop of a significantly smaller potato-growing area in Britain compared to a decade ago – a trend that should be a cause for concern for the government.
Looking ahead to 2025, seed availability is likely to be a key challenge. Access to preferred varieties may not be guaranteed for all, highlighting the need for greater focus on the origins of our seed and how we ensure the industry can secure its requirements. With much of our supply dependent on a small number of mini-tuber breeders and pre-basic growers (seed potato growers that produce the early generations of high-grade seed potatoes), there is an urgent need to strengthen seed security for the future.
Despite these challenges, there are many reasons to remain optimistic. The journey of GB Potatoes over the past year has been one of progress and promise. By uniting the supply chain, GB Potatoes has provided a platform for collaboration, innovation, and shared problem-solving. As we move into 2025, I am confident that we can maintain this momentum and turn obstacles into opportunities to safeguard the future of potato production in Great Britain.
A particular highlight of the year was the signing of the grant agreement between the AHDB and GB Potatoes in November. This agreement unlocks the residual potato levy reserves, providing vital funding for projects that will benefit the entire industry. Delivering these projects over the course of 2025 marks a pivotal step forward for GB Potatoes and our collective efforts to support the sector.
As we welcome the New Year, I want to thank everyone across the potato community for your hard work, dedication, and resilience. Together, we can embrace the opportunities ahead with a shared purpose. On behalf of GB Potatoes, I wish you all a prosperous and successful 2025.
GB Potatoes is a not-for-profit organisation funded by voluntary membership with an annual subscription. After the AHDB potato levy board ceased to exist, leaving the potato industry without unified sector-focused representation, GB Potatoes was established in May 2022 by a small group of growers to fill this void and provide a cohesive and impactful voice for the sector. Its members include growers, packers, processors, seed growers, research organisations, independent advisors, and ancillary businesses.
