Ribena Invests £200K to Toughen Blackcurrants Against Extreme Wea 2026

Ribena is investing £200,000 to develop hardier blackcurrant bushes that can withstand extreme weather, as the climate crisis continues to squeeze UK harvests. The move comes after a challenging season marked by record rainfall, frost, hail, and heatwaves, which are expected to reduce this year's blackcurrant crop by about 10% below the average of 10,000 tonnes. Growers in key regions like East Anglia, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Kent, and Scotland are now harvesting, but the impact of erratic weather is undeniable.

Why Extreme Weather Threatens Blackcurrant Harvests

Blackcurrants are particularly sensitive to weather fluctuations. This year, one of the wettest winters on record delayed pruning and weeding, while spring frosts and hail damaged blossoms. Then, intense June and July heatwaves caused scorching and premature fruit drop. The lack of rain has also resulted in smaller berries, further reducing yields. Harriet Prosser, an agronomist at Suntory Beverage & Food (Ribena's owner), noted: "Every year, there seems to be another weather record. It has been an exceptionally challenging season."

Climate Change Effects on Soft Fruit Crops

While some fruits like blueberries and grapes benefit from extra heat, others such as strawberries struggle to last into autumn. Overheated plants experience stress, leading to lower quality and quantity. Leafy vegetables, potatoes, wheat, and barley are also at risk from prolonged dry spells. Last year, a drought caused berries to ripen two weeks early, disrupting supply chains. This year's combination of extremes highlights the urgent need for resilient crops.

Investment in Research for Hardier Blackcurrants

To combat these challenges, Ribena is partnering with the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB) and the Blackcurrant Foundation to fund research into stress-tolerant blackcurrant varieties. Jo Hilditch, chair of the Blackcurrant Foundation and a grower from Herefordshire, emphasized the collaboration's importance. The £200,000 investment will focus on breeding bushes that can withstand both wet and dry extremes, ensuring a stable supply for Ribena's iconic blackcurrant cordial.

Comparison of Weather Impacts on UK Crops

Key Takeaways for Consumers and Growers

• Climate resilience is critical for future food security, especially for soft fruits like blackcurrants.
• Ribena's investment aims to safeguard supply chains against increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
• Growers must adapt with new varieties and practices to mitigate losses from extreme conditions.
• Consumers may see price fluctuations as harvests become more volatile.

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