At the Spain Food Nation Summit in London, experts discussed the rising demand for healthy foods as a chance for Spanish organic fruits and vegetables in the UK. Speakers emphasized focusing on health and taste benefits over environmental aspects. The event highlighted market gaps and strategies to boost Spanish exports.
The Spain Food Nation Summit, organized by Foods and Wine from Spain, occurred on Tuesday at Mare Street Market in London. Participants explored how increasing awareness of ultra-processed food risks is driving UK demand for organic options, creating potential for Spanish suppliers.
Spain's favorable climate and fertile lands position it well to promote naturally grown produce, speakers noted. The UK trails countries like Austria, Denmark, and Germany in organic sales, partly due to limited government backing. Among retailers, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, and Tesco show stronger organic penetration, while Asda, Morrisons, Aldi, and Lidl lag. Home delivery services now hold 15 percent of organic produce sales and are growing rapidly.
Fruits and vegetables comprise 23 percent of the UK organic market, with volumes and values rising gradually. Millie Diamond, a food trend strategist at WGSN, described the “ragged and raw” trend toward unprocessed, natural ingredients. “This creates a huge opportunity to produce great tasting, nutrient dense produce – people want the very best products in their most natural form,” she said.
Luke King, supply chain director at Riverford, observed a shift in consumer priorities. “In the past, our clientele was typically made up of organic enthusiasts, concerned about the environment and ethical trade, but this is moving into the background. Now it’s all about personal health,” he explained.
John Giles from Promar International pointed to declining UK organic production and the EU’s supportive Farm to Fork policy. “With UK organic production going down, there is an opportunity for Spain to fill that demand,” he said, stressing the need for a UK-EU phytosanitary agreement.
Price remains a key obstacle, according to Alastair Smith of Planet Organic, who referenced the Soil Association’s staircase model: consumers start with basics like carrots and bananas before expanding. John Valentine of Red Communications urged clearer messaging on benefits to justify premiums.
Maria Naranjo, director at Icex’s agrifood department, concluded: “We believe that Spain can compete at the highest level. We have first class products. We need to believe this and build a reputation, build image of excellence.”
The summit was followed by a Taste Spain event with chef demonstrations, tastings, and masterclasses from Spanish producers.