Industry celebrates double-digit growth in British blueberry sales but calls for better support and fairer returns from retailers
Blueberries have enjoyed 13 per cent sales growth this year despite challenging conditions for growers, British Berry Growers (BBG) has revealed.
The industry body says growers are ramping up production to meet rising demand, with plans to increase domestic yield by a third and reduce reliance on imports over the next few years.
BBG chairman Nick Marston said: “We are thrilled to see such a significant increase in British blueberry sales, especially amidst a difficult macro environment for berry growers.
“This surge is a clear indicator of the rising consumer demand for healthier food choices and a testament to the quality of British blueberries.”
However, Marston stressed that “it is vital that retailers continue to improve their relationships with growers and offer fair returns, so that we may meet this growing demand.”
BBG said the growth in British blueberry sales has been driven by major retailers such as Tesco, which has accounted for nearly a third (31 per cent) of sales so far in 2024.
Meanwhile, Lidl saw blueberry sales increase by 81 percent compared to last year.
According to BBG, the rise in blueberry sales is down to several factors, not least consumers’ health considerations. Among other things, the fruit can help reduce blood pressure and combat oxidative stress and inflammation, both major factors in developing chronic disease.
By contrast, British strawberry sales are roughly on par with 2023 (up one per cent), and raspberry and blackberry sales were five per cent and two per cent lower than in 2023, respectively.
