The first-ever UK trade association specifically for ethnic groups working in the fresh produce industry could be formed under new proposals to provide a forum for Asian and black producers.

The new organisation is the brainchild of Zad Padda, head of horticultural employment service Fusion Personnel and himself a grower.

'The idea of setting up a trade association of ethnic growers is twofold,' he told the Journal. 'First, it is to establish how many people from ethnic minorities are actually growing crops in the UK. Second, it is to aid and encourage anyone from these groups to get involved in the industry.

'The idea is to have an organisation that encourages integration and therefore will have an open membership. It will also work in partnership with other sector associations such as the NFU and FPC.' Anyone interested in joining the organisation should contact Zad Padda on 01386 833 753