UK Growers Introduce Locally Grown Strawberries for Christmas

West Sussex producers use innovative hydroponic techniques to deliver 38 tonnes of winter strawberries, supported by Tesco.

British strawberry growers in West Sussex have developed a hydroponic system to produce strawberries for the Christmas season.
Two producers, Wicks Farm and The Summer Berry Company (TSBC), aim to supply 38 tonnes of strawberries this winter, marking a 40% increase from last year.
The new vertical growing technology uses 50% less water and yields 3.5 times more fruit per square meter compared to traditional methods.
TSBC invested £6 million in advanced infrastructure, including LED lighting and heat pumps, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve sustainability.
Tesco is supporting this initiative, allowing select shoppers in West Sussex and nearby areas to enjoy locally grown strawberries during the festive season.