A report has uncovered serious failings in the UK produce supply chain.
The study, commissioned by DEFRA and carried out by English Farming and Food Partnerships, was based on feedback from actors at all levels of the supply chain and representatives from the European Union.
Issues flagged up in Driving Change in the Fresh Produce Sector include a lack of collaborative relationships and a supermarket pressure on margins.
At present, many UK produce firms are experiencing a decline, with mistrust among growers and low levels of investment leading to stagnant growth.
According to the report, the government needs to incentivise a more widespread uptake of support for grower groups.
"The industry cannot change overnight, but setting out to develop closer, more collaborative supply chains will, we believe, start a process that over time can build the trust and commitment required to give the UK industry," the report concludes.
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