Nick Marston, chairman of British Berry Growers (BBG), has announced he will depart from the role later this year.

He has been chairman for almost nine years, having been appointed in November 2017.

Moving forward, Marston will assist in the process of seeking out a suitable successor to oversee the farming industry body which represents over 95% of British berries sold in the UK.

During his time, he played a central part in championing British growers and strengthening partnerships with the Government and retailers.

Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free

Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning

Marston said: “It has been a privilege to serve as chairman of British Berry Growers and to support our hard-working growers during a period of such change for the sector.

“I am immensely proud of what the industry has achieved over the past eight years, from continued growth and innovation to the way growers have responded to increasingly complex challenges with resilience and ambition.”

He added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of working alongside such committed businesses, board members and colleagues, and I remain very optimistic about the future of British berries.”

The UK berry industry has continued to expand its economic value, with the industry worth more than £600m in Gross Value Added (GVA) and supporting over 16,000 jobs across the country.