Fresh Potato Suppliers Association (FPSA) becomes GB Potatoes Fresh Sector Consultation Group

The Fresh Potato Suppliers Association (FPSA) was established in 2009 to represent the fresh sector of the potato industry bringing together fresh packers and suppliers to retail. Its mission was to identify key issues affecting its members and provide a united voice within the sector.

With the processing sector being well represented by the Potato Processors Association (PPA) the FPSA focused on tackling technical and practical challenges to support the growth and development of the fresh sector. 

A Unified Voice 

GB Potatoes represents the entire potato industry across Great Britain. In 2024, discussions took place to integrate the FPSA into GB Potatoes to strengthen representation and eliminate duplication. As a result, the Fresh Sector Consultation Group (FSCG) was formed in early 2025, and the FPSA was transitioned into the GB Potatoes Fresh Sector Consultation Group. 

With collaboration at its core, the FSCG held its first meeting in February, drawing strong participation from former FPSA members and other packers and suppliers involved in the fresh sector. 

Strength Through Collaboration 

The FSCG will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the fresh potato sector:

• It will develop and propose initiatives for the sector, which will be reviewed and implemented by the GB Potatoes Board.
• It will work collectively with industry partners to tackle shared challenges.
• It will address areas of market failure—where an industry-wide approach is needed to resolve issues that individual businesses cannot fix alone.
• It will be representative of the fresh potato supply chain, including those selling fresh potatoes through retail, chip shops, and food service.
• It will ensure both growing and trading interests are represented.

Cooperating for success

GB Potatoes was founded to serve as a single, unified voice for the industry. By working together with other organisations, the organisation continues to uphold and deliver that vision. The formation of the FSCG demonstrates that the sector has been heard, and action has been taken. Similarly, the Seed Consultation Group, established in 2024, addresses the unique challenges of the seed industry and guides the GB Potatoes Board on key issues. 

A Call to Action

The FSCG and the Seed Consultation Group are just two examples of how GB Potatoes is delivering on its commitment to lead and coordinate industry efforts. More initiatives are in development. By fostering collaboration, coordination, and communication, challenges can be overcome, building a more sustainable future for the potato sector. 

As 2025 progresses, one thing remains clear: the strength of the potato industry depends on collective efforts. Get involved today and contribute to the solution that ensures a more resilient and prosperous future for the potato industry. GB Potatoes Organisation Ltd. is incorporated as a business limited by guarantee and not-for-profit, funded by voluntary membership with an annual subscription.