The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) can confirm it has achieved the target of reducing operational costs by GBP7.8m by the end of the 2022-2023 financial year.

As part of its commitment to reducing bureaucracy and costs over two years, outlined in the Change Program for 2021 to 2026, a total saving of GBP8.5m has been made.

This includes a non-pay related savings target of GBP300,000, through the reduction in governance costs related to the Horticulture and Potatoes sectors as well as the closure of a satellite office and taking into account the investment in new roles.

“I am pleased to confirm we have exceeded the savings target we set ourselves. This shows we are determined to build a leaner, more efficient organization that delivers effectively and offers better value for money for levy payers. […] This includes supporting farmers to remain viable despite changes to farm support, protecting the reputation of our industry, improving animal health and welfare, and identifying new export opportunities,” Chair Nicholas Saphir said.

AHDB Potatoes funded programs of research covering all aspects of potato production from seed health, agronomy, crop protection, storage, and crop quality.