The UK’s fresh produce industry is facing mounting challenges as logistical strains, regulatory burdens, and economic pressures disrupt the supply chain.
Industry leaders are calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further damage to perishable goods distribution, warning that ongoing issues could lead to rising costs and reduced availability of fresh produce.
A coalition of major UK businesses, including Amazon, Wincanton, Kuehne+Nagel, and GXO, has urged the government to recognise logistics as a foundational sector in its upcoming Industrial Strategy. In a letter to Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds MP, the signatories emphasised that efficient supply chains are crucial to economic growth and must be properly prioritised.
One of the key concerns is the UK’s declining logistics performance, with border delays, road congestion, and underinvestment in transport infrastructure causing significant disruptions.
Mike Parr, Managing Director of PML Seafrigo UK and Ireland emphasised the urgent need for a reassessment of current policies during a recent interview. he urged that, without swift intervention and comprehensive reform, the ongoing strain is set to erode market diversity, leaving both suppliers and consumers grappling with diminished choice and rising costs.
Over the past decade, the country’s global logistics ranking has dropped considerably, highlighting the urgent need for improvements.
Adding to the strain, new fixed charges on fresh produce and plant imports have come into effect, increasing costs for suppliers and exacerbating post-Brexit border control challenges. Industry insiders warn that these additional expenses will inevitably be passed on to consumers, driving up food prices and reducing the availability of perishable goods in supermarkets.
The fresh produce supply chain is already under pressure from rising consumer demand, growing sustainability expectations, and the need for greater efficiency in transportation. As costs continue to climb, businesses are calling on policymakers to take immediate action to stabilise supply routes, ease regulatory barriers, and invest in critical logistics infrastructure.
With the government preparing its Industrial Strategy, the logistics sector is making a strong case for formal recognition. Industry leaders argue that without decisive action, supply chain inefficiencies will continue to threaten the availability and affordability of fresh produce, ultimately impacting businesses and consumers alike.
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