UK Growers Warn of Early Halt Over Iran War Costs

British fruit and vegetable growers are warning that surging energy and transportation costs triggered by the war in Iran could force them to halt production prematurely, potentially leaving supermarket shelves empty across the United Kingdom.

The alerts come from major producers' associations, who say the escalating expenses are making it uneconomical to continue operations through the season. Lee Stiles, secretary of the Lea Valley Growers Association, which represents 70 glasshouse operations primarily around London's borders and extending nationwide, described the situation as a repeat of challenges faced during Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The group is the largest producer of cucumbers in the UK and also cultivates sweet peppers, aubergines and tomatoes.

"Growers are in the same position now as they were when Russia invaded Ukraine, because the wholesale gas prices are creeping up," Stiles said. He noted that many members are contemplating sending staff home and ending the season early, with critical decisions needed in the coming weeks on whether to keep producing. Without affordable heating for glasshouses, boilers may remain off, halting crop growth and slashing...