SINCE joining GB Potatoes in 2023, I have been continually inspired by the sheer passion that runs through our industry. Growing potatoes is not for the faint-hearted.
Those involved take on significant risk to produce a crop that consumers rely on and demand. The cost of production, loss of crop protection products, access to water and labour, competition for land, rising rental prices, and the growing impact of climate change are just some of the major challenges facing our sector.
Although we do not have precise, up-to-date figures on potato production in Great Britain, it is clear that the total growing area has been steadily shrinking over the past decade, while the number of growers has dropped significantly.
As a result, it is becoming increasingly noticeable that the same individuals are stepping forward time and again to represent the sector in industry forums and consultations. These contributors deserve immense credit for giving their time and expertise to help guide the industry through a complex and ever-changing landscape.
A sector that stands together
At GB Potatoes, we are committed to tackling the challenges facing the industry. A great example of this is the National Virus Forum, last held in February 2025 at FERA near York, where over 40 stakeholders from across the industry came together to address the growing threat of potato viruses, particularly as virus strains continue to evolve.
One of the key outcomes of this forum was a commitment by GB Potatoes to establish and lead a technical working group to put the forum’s recommendations into practice.
We have pledged to secure funding to support the group. However, financing the project is just one piece of the puzzle. Finding the right people and providing the necessary coordination, facilitation, and resources is just as important and thanks to the support of our members, GB Potatoes is well-positioned to deliver on this commitment.
This kind of behind-the-scenes work is often overlooked, yet it is crucial for the long-term success and resilience of our sector.
Working together on PCN
Another major issue where collaboration is essential is Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN). In partnership with CUPGRA through the GB PCN Forum, we are tackling the serious knowledge gaps that still exist among some growers, particularly around the difference between tolerance and resistance.
To help address this, the forum has commissioned Dr Matt Back of Harper Adams University to update the PCN guides previously published by AHDB. The first draft of the updated guidance has already been received and will be made available soon. Initially, the new guides will be shared exclusively with members of GB Potatoes and CUPGRA. However, in the interest of raising awareness and supporting the entire industry, a simpler summary guide will also be made available more widely.
Without initiatives like this, PCN-related efforts would remain fragmented, with knowledge and solutions accessible only to a few. Our goal is to ensure that the whole industry can benefit through a unified, coordinated approach.
Quiet but crucial conversations
The virus and PCN initiatives are just the tip of the iceberg. GB Potatoes is also engaged in ongoing dialogue with government departments and regulatory agencies to ensure policymakers understand the challenges our sector faces. These conversations are essential to building the relationships and channels of communication that will be critical if and when a major crisis arises.
While many of these discussions cannot be shared publicly, please know they are happening behind the scenes—on your behalf.
We all hope to avoid the next major threat to our industry, but if one comes, we must be prepared to act swiftly and speak with one voice.
Join Us
To continue this work, to represent your interests, amplify your voice, and safeguard your future, we need your support. Becoming a member of GB Potatoes is simple and affordable, especially when you consider the scale of investment already required to grow a crop of potatoes. Protecting that investment means supporting the structures that protect the sector.
To get involved or to learn more, please email us at [email protected] or visit www.gb-potatoes.co.uk. We are always keen to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions.
Let us continue to build an industry that works together—one that is informed, resilient, and driven by the passion and commitment that defines British potato growing.
