The James Hutton Institute has embarked on a ground-breaking five-year project focused on tackling the economic issues plaguing the UK’s raspberry growers.

The Raspberry Economics in Production project has been awarded £1 million in funding from UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Innovate UK programme to focus on improving the sustainability of raspberry production in the UK.

 Challenges such as rising production and labour costs, and the reduction of available pest and disease control measures pose severe risks to the industry. In response, the project will focus on developing raspberry varieties that require less water, fertiliser and labour to grow.

 In the last two years alone, growers’ costs have risen by 25%, whilst retailer returns indicate a 0% increase. Despite consumers consistently ranking UK-grown fruit quality ahead of imported fruit, purchasing patterns themselves mainly reflect price, with imported fruit costing less, and selling more.

 Dr Julie Graham, who leads the project at The James Hutton Institute said: “The UK raspberry industry is at a critical crossroads. While growers face rising costs, competition is increasing from cheaper imports. Add the pressure brought about by climate change, and it paints a bleak picture.

 “We’ll utilise cutting-edge genetic technology to develop varieties more resistant to climate change, which require fewer resources to grow. The project aims to safeguard the future of the industry while also supporting rural economies and the environment.”

 Using advanced genetic techniques such as genomics, transcriptomics and phenomics, the project will identify and apply traits in raspberries that make them more cost-effective to grow and more resilient to changing climates.

 Renowned for breeding a versatile range of raspberry varieties including Glen Ample, the Hutton will continue to build on its expertise in the industry by collaborating with a powerful consortium of partners.

 Peter Thomson from Thomas Thomson Blairgowrie Ltd said: “Working in partnership with the Hutton on this project is vital for the future of raspberry production in the UK.

 “Developing new, resource-efficient varieties will help growers meet rising challenges and ensure long-term sustainability.”

 The project is also supported by Berryplants Ltd, Dole UK Ltd, The Asplins Producer Organisation Ltd, Angus Soft Fruits Ltd, and the Institute’s commercial arm, James Hutton Limited (JHL).