British plum production, in decline for more than 35 years, is showing signs of recovery in 2025. This summer's harvest is forecast to be the largest in three years, with volumes expected to double compared to last year.
The 2025 harvest is now reaching Tesco stores across the UK. According to the retailer, the increase is due to improved production methods and the introduction of higher-yielding varieties. The industry's history dates back to the reign of King Henry VIII, when the first UK plum orchards were planted in Kent.
© Tesco
Maidstone-based WB Chambers, one of the UK's largest plum growers, reports that production has doubled from 150 tons in 2024 to 300 tons this year. The grower attributes the rise to favourable growing conditions and new varieties.
Tesco fruit category buying manager Simon Reeves said: "We are hearing similar reports from all our growers and main plum supplier that this has been the best harvest for about three years. The quality of the British-grown plums arriving at our stores across the UK right now is easily the best we've seen for several years – plump, juicy and sweet."
DEFRA data shows that UK plum production peaked in 1987 at 28,900 tons, before entering a steep decline. Lower yields and reduced profitability compared to crops such as berries, cherries, and apples prompted many growers to switch production. By 2008, production had fallen to just 2,500 tons. Between 1985 and 2017, the planted area dropped from 2,400 hectares to 800 hectares.
WB Chambers commercial director James Miller said: "The UK used to have one of the most vibrant plum industries in Europe, and our orchards were known around the world for producing the classic Victoria variety. As cheaper imports flooded the market and plum production became less profitable, interest in growing the fruit dwindled.
"But we have now invested in new rootstocks as well as modern farming systems such as automatic minimal irrigation and soil moisture analysis. And with the new varieties we have been planting over the last few years, such as 'Top Hit', 'Top Taste', and 'Top End', we believe we have great quality plums that not only taste wonderful but also have a better shelf life that will help cut down on wastage.
"And even better for the industry is that these varieties are better suited to the British climate, and that will help us extend the UK growing season."
For more information:
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