British Berry Growers has announced the appointment of its new chair.
Ali Capper has been appointed as chair of BBG, with onboarding from July followed by a formal role start in November.
She brings extensive experience of fresh produce leadership, having served as executive chair of British Apples & Pears for the past eight years.
The grower group said her appointment came at a pivotal time for UK berry production as growers faced ongoing cost pressures, labour challenges and the need for long-term investment to remain competitive.
“It is a real privilege to be asked to lead British Berry Growers at such a pivotal time for UK fresh produce,” Capper said. “Berry growers are operating in an increasingly competitive and complex environment, and strong representation has never been more important.
“I am excited about the opportunity to work with growers, retailers and government to help secure a confident and sustainable future for the sector.”
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Capper will succeed Nick Marston, who announced his planned retirement earlier this year.
“We thank Nick for his dedication and are delighted that Ali will be joining British Berry Growers,” said Lochy Porter, deputy chair of British Berry Growers. “She brings a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing UK horticulture, along with a strong track record of delivering effective representation and strategic leadership.
“This appointment reflects our ambition to strengthen advocacy for British berry growers and to ensure the sector is well positioned for sustainable growth.”
The new role means that Capper will be leaving her position at BAP in November.
“I will be very sad to step away from a sector and organisation I care deeply about,” said Capper. “I am fully committed to supporting a smooth and positive transition throughout 2026 and to continuing to work for the wider success of the British fruit industry.”
BAP vice chair James Simpson said that she had brought “energy, focus and renewed collaboration to the apple and pear sector, and we have gone from strength to strength under her leadership”.
“We will work with Ali and British Berry Growers to ensure an orderly transition through the course of this year as we begin the process of appointing her successor and continuing to deliver for our members,” Simpson added.
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