Vegetable growers fear price war

VEGETABLE growers countrywide fear a full-scale price war between major retailers will result in the cuts eventually being passed back to producers.

The Irish Farmers’ Association has warned the constant level of uncertainty and pressure is driving people out of the sector.

Field Vegetable chairman William Ruiter said fresh produce, which is not covered by the groceries order, is constantly being used by retailers as a loss leader as they battle for market share, leading to a steady decline in returns in recent years.