The lay of the land
The industry comprises different types of business, often family run SMEs (small- and medium-sized enterprises), involved in fruit, vegetables, glasshouse crops, plants, flowers and bulbs, nursery stock, tree production and mushrooms.
On the horizon
The industry is under severe pressure from competition from imports, a squeeze on margins, environmental constraints and labour issues.
As the cost of energy has soared, the cost to those growing under glass has risen. Competition has therefore increased with countries that have a favourable climate for production.
The strong pound has also lead to increased imports and equipment from around the world.
HM Revenue & Customs reported that in the nine years to 2004, UK imported plants and cuttings increased by over 60%.
The 2012 Olympic Games is expected to benefit the nursery industry by £30 million, the landscape industry by £100 million, and retail by £521 million (London Retail Consortium).
A number of initiatives are planned for the industry to raise skills and knowledge to meet the needs of businesses and workers:
Technology transfer events, workshops, and material provided by Horticultural Development Council, Stockbridge, HRI Warwick and others
The Horticultural Trades Association’s Business Improvement Schemes
Marketing initiatives like the ‘Cooking Bus’, ‘Food Direct from the Farm’ in the East of England, and the National Farmers’ Union’s ‘Red Tractor’
Asda’s ‘Produce Change’ initiative which will provide over 250 growers to Asda with business oriented skills training.
Digging deeper
Our research helps us to keep education and training relevant to your industry. We study the skills and labour requirements of the production horticulture industry, and ensure these needs are met through your training.
For more detailed information, read the Production Horticulture Sector Skills Agreement Stage 5 Report.
