In 1999, Richard Arundel and Bruce Kerr established a company that offers a range of services for potato growers, encompassing seeds, storage, and marketing.
The founders recall the early 2000s when their business model attracted other growers seeking to enhance their operations. Their marketing strategies and connections with key players in retail, processing, and food manufacturing distinguished their offerings. By 2001, the operation had expanded to cultivating 400 hectares of potatoes and marketing 50,000 tonnes for other growers.
The company credits its success to a commitment to quality and a vertically integrated approach, handling all facets of the produce supply chain. The AKP Group emphasizes the importance of people and partnerships in their operations, highlighting a deep understanding of the UK farming sector and a commitment to delivering quality produce.
AKP Group has developed a network that aligns crop availability with customer needs, ensuring the provision of suitable potatoes for various markets. The company offers guidance to growers on various aspects, from selection to storage, and matches produce with customer requirements, serving retail, food service, and food manufacturing sectors both domestically and internationally.
The company have a storage capacity for 45,000 tonnes of potatoes and utilizes advanced cold storage technology. The acquisition of Wolds Produce has further strengthened its seed supply chain.
Source: Farmers Guide