NFU Sugar and British Sugar have announced a beet price of £40/t for the 2023/24 sugar beet contract year, equating to a 48% price increase on last year.

The offer also includes a number of new options for growers to consider as part of the contract:

  • Growers have the choice to purchase a yield guarantee product that protects income against yield losses.
  • A ‘futures-linked’ variable price contract for the 2023/24 crop which enables growers to make more dynamic pricing decisions for up to 20% of their contracts.
  • A local premium, revised multi-year prices and the option of a cash advance.

“I’m incredibly pleased that we are able to announce this contract offer to growers in a timely manner, which represents a significant price increase on the previous contract,” said Michael Sly, NFU Sugar board chair.

“With growers facing significant cost increases, and the prices of alternative crops having risen to unprecedented levels, I’m glad we agreed on a contract offer that should keep sugar beet as a valued part of growers’ rotations. I’m hopeful this deal gives the opportunity for re-investment into the sugar beet sector and provides confidence for the future.”

Innovative features

Michael added that NFU Sugar has invested considerable time working constructively with British Sugar to reach this deal and this has allowed them to develop innovative features that will add value to growers.

“After a couple of challenging seasons, which highlighted the increased risks growers are facing, I’m pleased we have found a pioneering way of allowing growers to mitigate their yield risk.

“There is no doubt that we have been concerned about the decline in growing area over the past two years and the subsequent impact this had on the supplier base. It was important this deal addressed that and I hope now we will see that decline reverse and the industry rebound.”

A healthy margin

Paul Kenward, managing director at British Sugar added: “We’re delighted to announce our contract offer for the 2023/24 growing season today (28 June). £40/t offers growers a healthy margin even at today’s high costs, compares very favourably with alternative crops, and offers yield guarantees for a small payment.

“We’re confident that this straightforward, attractive offer provides choice, security and profitability during an extremely challenging time for all growers. On top of a compelling price, we have listened to calls for flexibility and growers now have an option to opt-in to the new risk mitigation option we are offering for yield protection, as well as a cash advance option for the 2023 crop.

Long-term future

With UK customers keen to buy from British Sugar, Paul said the firm is really well-placed to partner with growers for the long-term. “I am certain this contract will encourage further investment going forward. We have four well-invested factories, a great product and an exciting story to share. Our growers are a key part of our business and I hope that this offer provides an incentive for them to continue growing next season and beyond.”