‘UK horticulture is being held back’: Industry demands action on labour, energy and investment

UK horticulture leaders at Fruit Focus 2026 called for urgent government and industry action to address structural barriers including seasonal labour uncertainty, rising energy costs, water infrastructure, crop protection regulations, and the loss of key support schemes. They argued that restoring competitiveness—rather than simply increasing output—is essential for growth, highlighting disadvantages compared to European counterparts due to policy decisions, expensive labour, and lack of support programs. Sector representatives stressed the need for long-term certainty on worker visas, energy policy, and regulatory alignment to support investment and innovation, and advocated for collaborative, grower-led research to tackle practical challenges. The emerging growth strategy emphasizes shared responsibility among government, growers, and the supply chain.