News about United Kingdom

Cherries are bringing satisfaction to British growers

Production

11 Aug 2026

UK cherry sales rose 14.7% in value and 8.6% in volume, strengthening confidence in British-grown fruit. Investments in protected production, orchard management and new genetics are improving quality and consistency despite volatile weather and rising labour costs.

From Chile to England: San Clemente’s commitment to cherry production using local talent in Europe

Production

28 Jul 2026

In Kent, England, Agrícola San Clemente and FGA Farming are building an innovative cherry production model that combines technology, Chilean varieties, protective tunnels and seasonal workers from Chile to supply premium fruit directly to the British retail market.

Jon Clark: commercial success will increasingly depend on how the cherries are sold

Markets

04 May 2026

In 2026, UK sweet cherries confirm growth, quality gains and steady retail demand. With production forecast at 8,000 tonnes, the key challenge will be diversifying across retail, wholesale and export to capture value during seasonal peaks while reducing waste and big discounting.

South African cherry exports grow: UK leads, China set to open in 2026

Production

05 Dec 2025

South Africa’s cherry exports are growing fast: in 2024 over 800 hectares were in production. 60% go to the UK, followed by the EU and Middle East. China is the next frontier for 2026, with cold treatment protocols under evaluation to meet phytosanitary rules.

KIR: new German varieties spark interest in the UK

Varieties

17 Nov 2025

Gräb Nursery visits top cherry growers in the UK to evaluate late Kir® varieties. Focus on fruit quality, storage and cracking resistance. In partnership with Frank P Matthews Trees, the aim is to develop stronger, tastier and climate-adapted cherry cultivars.

Cherries turned into powder: Kent research opens new perspectives on Alzheimer’s

Health

02 Sep 2025

A study from the University of Kent transforms discarded cherries into a powder rich in anthocyanins, showing potential protection against Alzheimer’s disease. By combining agricultural sustainability with science, researchers open new perspectives in fighting cognitive decline.

Chilean cherry pickers reshape UK harvest with San Clemente's global model

Production

25 Aug 2025

Agrícola San Clemente expands its footprint in the UK with 120 skilled Chilean cherry pickers. Their precision and technical expertise boost cherry harvest quality in Kent, combining local production with global know-how in a model praised by British growers.

Tesco goes local: record-breaking UK cherry season driven by climate and innovation

Markets

17 Jul 2025

Tesco commits to selling only British-grown cherries in 2025, capitalizing on a warm spring, innovative local varieties, and modern farming techniques. With production rising sharply in Kent and other areas, UK cherries are sweeter, juicier, and available for a longer season.

Kent cherries enjoy record season thanks to climate and innovation

Production

16 Jul 2025

In Kent, the 2025 cherry season reaches record levels thanks to innovative varieties, post-harvest technologies and ideal climate conditions. UK producers estimate 8,000 tonnes of cherries—four times the 2018 crop and 14 times higher than the yield recorded in 2015.

Biocontrol strategies for cherry brown rot: new evidence from the United Kingdom

Crop protection

04 Jun 2025

A UK study evaluates Bacillus subtilis and Aureobasidium pullulans for controlling Monilinia laxa on cherry trees. Biocontrol reduces infection when applied repeatedly and at key stages, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fungicide use.