Small producers of fruit and vegetable across Scotland are being invited to take part in a national survey to build a clearer picture of their sector and inform future Scottish Government support.
The survey forms part of research commissioned by the Scottish Government and delivered by SAOS, the James Hutton Institute and the Landworkers’ Alliance. The study will explore how small horticultural businesses operate, their contribution to Scotland’s food supply, and the challenges and opportunities affecting their future.
The research team wants to hear from producers across Scotland, including market gardens, small fruit and vegetable businesses, and farms and crofts with horticultural enterprises. The study also covers producers of herbs, mushrooms and microgreens. Growers supplying customers through veg boxes, farm shops, markets, local retailers, hospitality or other routes are encouraged to share their experiences.
The survey asks about production, routes to market, land, labour and infrastructure, alongside business ambitions and the support producers need to thrive. Responses will help the researchers understand what supports successful businesses, what limits their development, and where policy and practical support could make a difference.
Adam Forrest, Co-operative Development Manager at SAOS, said: “Small growers operate in many different ways, and their experiences are not always visible in existing data. This research is an opportunity to build a better understanding of the sector, grounded in the realities of running these businesses.
“We want to hear what is working, what is difficult, and what would help. Whether you run a market garden, grow fruit and vegetables as part of a mixed farm or croft, or supply a small local customer base, your experience can help inform future support.”
The survey is part of a wider programme combining sector mapping, interviews and discussions with producers and other organisations involved in Scotland’s food supply chains.
The findings will provide an evidence base to inform future Scottish Government thinking on support for small horticulture producers and market gardens in Scotland.
Organisations working with small scale growers are encouraged to share the survey through their networks.
The survey is open, until 27th November 2026, at: https://hutton.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eL4ywf6VNO82qyi
ENDS
Notes to editors
- The research project is titled Understanding the Small Edible Horticulture Industry in Scotland.
- It is commissioned by the Scottish Government and led by SAOS, working with the James Hutton Institute and the Landworkers’ Alliance
- More on James Hutton Institute: The James Hutton Institute, crops, soil and environmental research
- More on the Landworkers’ Alliance at: Landworkers' Alliance
- The study combines producer mapping, a national survey, interviews and case studies to examine the sector’s characteristics, business models, challenges and opportunities.
Contact details for more information: adam.forrest@saos.coop
