Uncertain economy, minimum wages and retail climate may be the biggest challenges for herbs.

Issues raised by Brexit may not be the biggest challenges for the British herb industry going forwards, according to British Herb Chairman Mathew Prestwich. Mathew, who works for R&G Herbs (Fresh Herbs), is in his second stint in the post.

He has written to members and says: "I have mentioned to Council on many occasions that Brexit and the availability of labour will be an issue, but I firmly believe that the uncertain economic climate, the minimum wage rises and the competitive nature of the retail sector will be our biggest challenges. Even if you can get labour, will you be able to afford to pay them?

British Herbs is one of a number of crops associations managed by the British Growers Association. It covers all aspects of herb production and processing including fresh cut, fresh pot, garden pot, essential oil production, processing (such as freezing and/or drying), seed production and importing. The Association is committed to promoting the industry and ensuring that it has a safe and prosperous future.