Summary
This 2023 Sustain report presents a survey-based assessment of economic viability among British fruit and vegetable farmers, finding that 49% reported likelihood of business closure within 12 months. The report contextualises this finding within systemic challenges including labour shortages, inadequate support, and unfair supply chain practices. As a policy-oriented document, it contributes to evidence on the structural vulnerability of UK horticultural production.
UK applicability
Directly applicable to UK policy and practice; presents primary evidence on the economic sustainability crisis within British horticulture and identifies systemic barriers (labour, supply chains, support structures) requiring policy intervention to sustain domestic food production capacity.
Key measures
Percentage of British fruit and vegetable farmers reporting likelihood of business closure within 12 months; contextual factors cited (labour shortages, support availability, supply chain fairness)
Outcomes reported
The report documents the proportion of British fruit and vegetable farmers reporting likelihood of business closure within 12 months, contextualised against broader challenges including labour shortages, cost pressures, and supply chain inequities.
Topic tags
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