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NFU Sugar and British Sugar confirmed they were unable to reach an agreement on the annual price and contract terms for the 2027/28 sugar beet crop.
Following the negotiations, the sugar beet processor and the growers’ representative body could not reach the agreement, and the matter has moved into a formal dispute-resolution process.
Dan Green, agriculture director at British Sugar, said: «Despite our best efforts to reach a fair and timely agreement with NFU Sugar on the price and contract terms for the 2027/28 sugar beet crop, the matter is now in independent arbitration.
We recognise the frustration and uncertainty this ongoing process may be causing growers, and, in line with the established industry process, contract pricing and terms will be determined no later than 30th October 2026».
NFU Sugar Board chair Kit Papworth said: «For months, NFU Sugar has negotiated in good faith with British Sugar in the hope of reaching an agreement on the price and contract terms for the 2027/28 sugar beet crop. Unfortunately, we have so far been unable to reach what we consider to be a fair agreement on behalf of our growers.
“British Sugar commenced the arbitration process in early August. The arbitration hearing will take place in the second half of October, with a determination at the end of October. The NFU Sugar team and Board continue to work hard on our growers’ behalf to ensure that the contract terms for growing sugar beet in 2027/2028 are reasonable».
Last year, NFU Sugar and British Sugar concluded negotiations and agreed a deal for the 2026/27 sugar beet contract by mid-August.
More details: https://www.farmersguide.co.uk/arable/sugar-beet/2027-28-sugar-beet-price-agreement-not-reached/