Partnership between University of Portsmouth and Isle of Wight Tomatoes aims to reduce food waste, improve forecasting and boost sales
New research led by the University of Portsmouth is set to improve forecasting accuracy and reduce produce waste at tomato grower Isle of Wight Tomatoes.
The project will use predictive analytics and machine learning to maximise the production of tomatoes across the whole farming process, from growing to sales and distribution.
The research will bring crop growth and sales forecasting together into one unified system to drive better, more informed decision-making using data on weather, promotions, seasonal trends and major events such as the World Cup.
The project is being led by Dr Huijing Chen, from the School of Organisations, Systems and People at the University of Portsmouth. Dr Chen said: “This project is about using data to take the guesswork out of tomato production. As fresh tomatoes are perishable, getting the balance between supply and demand right is essential – both for reducing waste and driving profit.
“What’s fascinating is how many factors can influence that balance; seasonal weather can affect how crops grow, while events like the World Cup or Wimbledon can shift consumer demand overnight. By analysing past data, we can identify those patterns and make smarter, more proactive decisions.”
By accurately forecasting, Isle of Wight Tomatoes aims to capture 10 per cent of the overall domestic market while also exploring new opportunities beyond their current offering.
Paul Thomas, managing director of Isle of Wight Tomatoes, said: “One of the most valuable aspects of this project is the range of challenges that data can help address. On one side, we’re looking at demand patterns across a range of customers in different categories, which can vary significantly, and using those insights to shape smarter commercial strategies.
“On the other, there’s a broader opportunity to support UK production and reduce dependence on imports. Helping UK retailers source domestically isn’t just good for business; it’s good for sustainability and national food security too.”
The company, which takes a circular approach to reducing waste, hopes the project will also support their mission to become a zero-waste business. It is also hoped to deliver results for the wider industry.
The project forms part of the University of Portsmouth’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership programme which supports innovation between researchers and businesses through projects over £4 million.
