Home / Business and Economy / Ribena Factory Faces Climate Woes
Ribena Factory Faces Climate Woes
30 Jul
Summary
- 90% of UK blackcurrants go into Ribena production.
- Extreme weather challenges have impacted the current harvest.
- New blackcurrant varieties show promise for climate resilience.
A new multimillion-pound factory on the outskirts of Ledbury is now operational, dedicated to transforming the UK's blackcurrant harvest into Ribena concentrate. This facility processes approximately 90% of the nation's blackcurrant crop.
Growers in Herefordshire, East Anglia, and Scotland have experienced a difficult year. Agonomist Harriet Prosser noted that extreme weather, including heavy rain, hail, and three heatwaves, has severely impacted the bushes. "For a little black berry on a bush that can cook in the sun, get up to 40 or 50 degrees, we've had some real challenges."
Despite the challenges leading to a reduced harvest, there is good news. Newer blackcurrant varieties, traditionally named after Scottish mountains, have performed well. Prosser is also exploring methods to improve soil health and water retention to enhance drought resilience.
The new plant can process 400 tonnes daily. While this year's yield is down, the concentrate stores well, and supplies can be supplemented by harvests from 2024 and 2025. Long-term strategies involving new varieties and adapted farming methods are crucial for sustained operation.
