Efforts to fill the void left by AHDB Potatoes have progressed with the website launch of a grower-led organisation of sector stakeholders.

AHDB Potatoes has now wound down after growers voted last year to cease paying the levies that funded the board’s research and information activities.

However, a group of growers and traders has been concerned the sector would fragment and have no collective voice without the levy board.  

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They are developing GB Potatoes, an umbrella organisation that aims to “defend the industry from threats and provide a flexible platform for innovation and growth”.

Archie Gibson, chief executive of certified seed supplier Agrico UK, has been acting as a facilitator to get the organisation up and running.

Mr Gibson explained there had been widespread concern among growers that the end of the levy system might be counter to the interest of the sector.

“We are aiming to fill a potential gap by creating a respected voice for the industry that will communicate with government officials, politicians and scientific advisory bodies,” he said.

The body would be funded by voluntary contributions from growers at a fraction of the cost of the AHDB levy.

Mr Gibson suggested that rate would be £10/ha for growers – about 80% lower than the £42.68/ha levy rate paid previously to the AHDB.

First buyers would also be asked to contribute 10p/t to become members.

“With that level of funding we would be able to employ the right people, stimulate trade and promote collaboration,” Mr Gibson said.

It would also fund scanning for disease threats and provide technical advice on storage and chemistry issues, while promoting consumption.

“We believe this is a far fairer approach, and if we all pull together, can support a lean and efficient organisation that will ensure the industry thrives,” he added.

Mr Gibson also wants the website to act as a repository for the research already funded by levy payments to the AHDB.

AHDB archives

In the meantime, the AHDB has announced the launch of an online horticulture and potatoes archive for former levy payers in both sectors.

The websites contain articles, summaries and knowledge exchange work delivered by the AHDB, said a levy board spokesman.

As well as the research library containing published reports, it will also include all Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use (EAMU) programme content.

The EAMU programme has, in the past, helped growers retain access to vital pesticides for emergency use.

While horticulture and potatoes content has been removed from the main AHDB website, some cross-sector information will remain available, such as the pest encyclopaedia.