Martin Emmett, Simon Conway and Richard Hopkins spoke at a seminar to discuss the impact of recent geopolitical events on the fresh produce sector.
- Investment and Growth: Over the past five years, there has been significant interest from private equity and venture capital firms in large-scale, sustainable glasshouse projects powered by waste-to-energy initiatives.
- Expansion Efforts: The Rivenhall development in Essex was recently approved following an extensive planning process. This project represents one of the largest new glasshouse sites in recent years, encompassing 40 hectares of new glass.
- Market Challenges: Global conflicts have negatively impacted the industry by driving up gas prices, which subsequently affects distribution costs and plastic pricing.
- Strategic Outlook: To address these challenges, the industry must collaborate with supply chain partners and supermarket customers. Ultimately, the focus remains on the long-term goal of increasing national self-sufficiency.
