Scott Walker, CEO of GB Potatoes, marked the start of 2025 with an insightful message to the British potato industry. Reflecting on the challenges and achievements of the past year, Walker emphasized the resilience of the sector and outlined the priorities for the year ahead.
2024: A Year of Challenges and Progress
“This past year has flown by, and it seems each year becomes busier than the last,” Walker began, acknowledging the hurdles faced in 2024. Prolonged wet weather at the start of the year delayed planting for many growers, leading to varied yields across Great Britain. However, the harvest season brought some relief, with Walker noting, “The 2024 harvest proved to be much smoother than the previous year in most potato-growing areas.”
Walker highlighted a broader issue that continues to weigh on the industry: the reduction in Great Britain’s potato-growing area over the past decade. “This trend should be a cause for concern for the Government,” he warned, calling attention to the need for supportive measures to sustain the sector.
Seed Availability: A Key Challenge for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, Walker identified seed availability as a critical challenge. “Access to preferred varieties may not be guaranteed for all,” he cautioned, urging the industry to prioritize seed security. With much of the supply chain reliant on a small number of mini-tuber breeders and pre-basic growers, Walker stressed the urgency of addressing this vulnerability: “There is an urgent need to strengthen seed security for the future.”
Optimism and Collaboration: Building Momentum
Despite these challenges, Walker conveyed a message of optimism. “The journey of GB Potatoes over the past year has been one of progress and promise,” he said, highlighting the organization’s role in uniting the supply chain and fostering collaboration and innovation.
“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.”
AHDB Agreement: Unlocking Vital Funding
A key milestone for GB Potatoes in 2024 was the signing of a grant agreement with the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB). This agreement unlocks the residual potato levy reserves, enabling funding for critical projects.
“Delivering these projects over the course of 2025 marks a pivotal step forward for GB Potatoes and our collective efforts to support the sector,” Walker stated.
A Message of Gratitude and Hope for the New Year
In closing, Walker expressed gratitude to those within the potato industry. “I want to thank everyone across the potato community for your hard work, dedication, and resilience,” he said. “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!”
With this message, Walker sets a hopeful tone for the year, rallying the British potato industry to tackle its challenges and seize opportunities for growth and innovation.
Source: GB Potatoes
Contact:
Graham Bannister
Working with GB Potatoes
gb@grahambannister.co.uk
Image: Credit Günter Rupprich from Pixabay
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