Research will build picture of business confidence and production levels, helping shape investment decisions, market development and productivity improvements
Industry body GB Potatoes has launched a new Potato Industry Confidence Survey to gauge grower sentiment, production trends and the factors shaping the future of the potato sector in Britain.
The survey is designed not only to measure business confidence, but also to gather detailed information on the hectares of potatoes being grown. The idea is to provide the first consistent, nationwide benchmark of production levels across the industry.
This insight will help GB Potatoes, the industry and government understand the scale, distribution and operational realities of potato cultivation, as well as the environmental and market challenges they face.
After several years of cost volatility, changing market conditions, and increasing scrutiny around sustainability and environmental performance, GB Potatoes hopes the research will help the sector identify where collaboration and targeted investment can deliver the greatest impact.
Alex Godfrey, chair of GB Potatoes, said: “By quantifying both production hectarage and the pressures growers are managing every day – from costs to labour and water availability – we can build a clear, data-driven picture of the sector.
“The British potato industry is resilient and innovative, with enormous long-term potential. By capturing accurate production data alongside sentiment, we can make a stronger case for the policies, research, and commercial support needed to secure that future.”
The results of the survey will feed into GB Potatoes’ annual Confidence and Production Report, establishing a benchmark for grower sentiment and hectarage.
This evidence will inform engagement with government, research bodies, and the wider supply chain, shaping discussions on investment priorities, market development, productivity improvements and long-term sector resilience.
Godfrey added: “By contributing their data, growers will give GB Potatoes and its partners the insight needed to advocate for the sector with clarity and authority, and to help ensure the British potato industry remains both competitive and sustainable.”
The Potato Industry Confidence Survey is open until 16 January 2026, and all participants will be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 voucher.
Growers can complete the survey online here.
