​Ali Capper appointed chair of British Berry Growers

Longstanding executive chair of British Apples and Pears (BAPL), Ali Capper, will take over from Nick Marston as chair of British Berry Growers (BBG) following his planned retirement later this year. 

Capper will step down from her own role at BAPL to take up the position, with onboarding to begin in July this year, followed by a formal role start in November.

BAPL has begun recruiting for Capper’s successor, the organisation has confirmed. 

“This appointment reflects our ambition to strengthen advocacy for British berry growers and to ensure the sector is well positioned for sustainable growth,” said BBG deputy chair, Lochy Porter.

Capper, a topfruit and hops grower, brings extensive experience of fresh produce leadership and advocacy, having led BAPL for the past eight years.

Her appointment comes at a significant time for UK berry production as growers face ongoing cost pressures, labour challenges and growing compeition. 

“We thank Nick for his dedication and are delighted that Ali will be joining British Berry Growers,” Porter continued.

”She brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing UK horticulture, along with a strong track record of delivering effective representation and strategic leadership,” he added. 

Capper said it is ”a real privilege” to lead BBG at such a pivotal time for UK fresh produce.

“Berry growers are operating in an increasingly competitive and complex environment, and strong representation has never been more important,” she said.

“After eight years with British Apples & Pears Limited, I will be very sad to step away from a sector and organisation I care deeply about. I am fully committed to supporting a smooth and positive transition throughout 2026 and to continuing to work for the wider success of the British fruit industry,” she added. 

BAPL vice chair, James Simpson, said Capper has brought energy, focus and renewed collaboration to the apple and pear sector. “We have gone from strength to strength under her leadership,” he said.

“We will work with Ali and British Berry Growers to ensure an orderly transition through the course of this year as we begin the process of appointing her successor and continuing to deliver for our members. Ali remains executive chair of BAPL until the new role starts in November 2026,” Simpson confirmed.