New tech means bumper Christmas strawberry crop

Strawberry growers in West Sussex have developed new technology which has increased production in time for Christmas.

Wicks Farm in Ford, near Arundel, and The Summer Berry Company in Colworth, near Chichester, have grown 38 tonnes in time for the festive season, up 40% on 2023.

The new system also uses 50% less water and guarantees a year-round supply.

David Moore, managing director of Wicks Farm, said it improved "the supply of healthy, nutritious food" and minimised "the miles involved in its distribution".

"This is grown hydroponically, with a water feed instead of in soil, in multiple stacked layers in an indoor environment," he added.

Installing the new technology at The Summer Berry Company cost £6m but has allowed the farm to produce its first winter strawberry crop and reduce its reliance on fossil fuel energy.

Chief executive David Sanclement said: "We're all familiar with British strawberries at Wimbledon and Royal Ascot but not so used to them being served on Christmas Day after the turkey.

"We believe our new technology provides a superior-tasting fruit, all grown within West Sussex."

The development is being supported by the supermarket Tesco.

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