Shoprite closure could see end of Manx fruit and veg production warns union

MNFU says acquisition had massive impact on sector

The Island's fruit and vegetable production is on the brink of collapse, according to the Manx National Farmers' Union.

It's claiming demand has fallen since Shoprite announced it was being taken over by Tesco.

Earlier this year, Ballaquinney Farm in Ronague announced it wasn't going to produce potatoes anymore because of a 'sharp slump' in local sales.

President Ean Parsons admits other factors have played a part too like the impact of Brexit and the war in Ukraine.

However, he says we may not have local producers of fruit and veg on the Island for much longer:

Manx Radio contacted Tesco for comment and they say:

"Since our expansion on the Isle of Man we have been working closely with the IOM Government to engage and upskill as many local suppliers as possible.

"We already stock 121 products from 12 producers and we continue to actively work with others to stock them in our stores.”

Scott Gallacher is the Chief Officer for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

He told Phil Gawne about the support they've been able to give farmers: