Potato group sets out funding plans

Potato industry leaders who are driving forward proposals for a new representative organisation – funded by voluntary subscriptions – say they have a “clear mandate” to take plans to the next stage.

The group – tentatively known as GB Potatoes – has held meetings in Angus, Aberdeenshire, the Black Isle, the Royal Highland showground and at venues across England, where it set out its ideas for a body that would fill the void created by the industry’s rejection of the AHDB Potatoes levy.

Details of three suggested strands of funding were outlined at the meetings.

For growers the proposed contribution would be £5 to £10 per hectare – around 20% of the AHDB levy. For first purchasers – who did not previously contribute to the levy – the fee would be 5-10p per tonne.

Agronomy companies, packers, processors and other service providers would contribute £250 for each £100,000 of trade.

All figures are provisional and would be agreed by an appointed board.

The group says that if it is able to get support from even half of all seed and ware growers in the UK, the structure as currently proposed would net around £475,000 to £500,000 per year.

The funds would be used to fight the industry’s corner with governments, coordinate research and innovation, and maintain essential services – such as blight monitoring – which were previously funded by AHDB levy payers.

Agrico executive director Archie Gibson, who is driving the proposals in Scotland, said those who attended the meetings were willing to contribute to a new organisation.

“There was an absolute recognition for the need for an overarching organisation, such as GP Potatoes, to champion the cause of the sector and all its different segments so we could engage with government officials and ministers in devolved administrations,” he said.

“We got a green light to carry on, and we are now writing to all interested parties asking if they are willing to put their money where their mouths are.

“We will also ask if they are willing to complete a declaration setting out how much they grow or what tonnage they buy.”

Mr Gibson accepted not everyone would contribute towards a voluntary subscription, but said data could be managed to avoid “freeloaders”.

A pressing issue for any new body would be restoring seed potato trade with Europe, however Mr Gibson said it was essential to have a “relevant offer” that would reflect all aspects of the industry.

‘MANDATE’: The group set out its ideas for a body to fill the void created by the rejection of the AHDB Potatoes levy.

Agrico’s executive director Archie Gibson.