Sales of British blueberries have risen by 13% this year, driven by record demand for the fruit, according to industry group British Berry Growers (BBG). The increase comes despite challenging conditions for growers, and is seen as a sign of growing consumer preference for healthier food choices.
Neil Donaldson, commercial director at Hall Hunter, the UK's largest blueberry grower, said demand for the 'ultimate superfood' is at record levels. Blueberries are popular across all age groups and have become a lunchbox staple. 'They're packed full of antioxidants, packed full of vitamins, and that message is slowly getting out there,' he said.
UK shoppers buy around 60,000 tonnes of blueberries annually, with British growers supplying about a tenth. The rest is imported, mainly from Poland, Peru, or Chile depending on the season. However, growers are extending the growing season with new varieties that mature earlier or later than traditional ones.
Hall Hunter, which produces about 2,500 tonnes this year from farms in Berkshire and Surrey, is planting an additional 55 hectares, expected to yield 4,000 tonnes. The company uses a state-of-the-art harvester capable of picking 600kg of fruit per hour, reducing labour costs.
Despite the boom, growers face pressure from rising costs and competition from cheaper imports. Bartosz Pinkosz, operations director at The Summer Berry Company, said there is scope to grow more blueberries in the UK, but it must be financially sustainable. 'It is not about making a huge profit but making sure that all costs are covered,' he said.
BBG chair Nick Marston noted that even at the peak of the UK season, about half the blueberries on shelves are still imported, presenting opportunities for British growers. He called on retailers to improve relationships and offer fair returns to ensure the industry's viability.
