Produce World's Jason Burgess has been appointed as the new vice chairman of the British Growers Association (BGA).
As a board director at Produce World, Burgess brings a wealth of horticulture and fresh produce experience to the role.
He joined the family business in 1987, and in his current role, he leads the company’s farming operations where he is able to combine his skills in farm management and operational knowledge.
Commenting on his recent appointment, Burgess said: “I am delighted to be taking up this position at a challenging and exciting time for both the BGA and the industry as whole.
“As an industry, we find ourselves supplying a retail market that is more competitive than it has ever been. At the same time, there are numerous challenges for growers including the need for sustainability and environmental accountability, a reduction in the number of crop protection products available and a dearth of actives in the pipeline. We are facing the challenge of producing more with less inputs at the cheapest possible price!
“And the BGA needs to step up to the plate. To work with other grower organisations in supporting the development of the industry, and providing greater expertise on key issues.”
Jack Ward, BGA chief executive, said: “Jason brings a wealth of expertise from across the horticulture industry to the role. And this invaluable knowledge and experience will help us in our ambition to support the industry, to beat off global competition and ensure that UK producers and suppliers are the producers and suppliers of choice for UK consumers.
“We need to ensure our sector remains competitive and we are very much looking forward to working with Jason as vice chairman and making use of his invaluable sector knowledge, to help drive our industry forward.”
